21 November 1989

Tuesday

1989-11-21

Events

 * The first televised speech in the House of Commons of the United Kingdom is made by Ian Gow, the Conservative Member of Parliament for Eastbourne.

TV

 * BBC One
 * 10.45 am The State Opening of Parliament by Her Majesty The Queen. Her Majesty The Queen drives in procession from Buckingham Palace to the Palace of Westminster. David Dimbleby describes the glittering ceremony in the House of Lords, when before the Royal Family and the assembled peers, bishops and judges, Her Majesty commands Black Rod to summon the members of the House of Commons to attend. There she delivers the speech written for her by the Prime Minister, which outlines the Government's proposed legislation for the new session of Parliament.

scans GraemeWood
 * BBC Two
 * 2.15 pm Westminster Live The Queen's Speech Debate David Dimbleby presents the first live coverage from the House of Commons.
 * 8.10 pm Commons on Camera. Today the Commons went 'on camera' for the first time. But how much will we be allowed to see, and will being on television alter the way the House behaves? David Dimbleby talks to senior politicians who will have to work under the cameras