The houses of Parliment

Britain is a parliamentary monarchy.

Officially the head of the state is the king or queen.

The Houses of Parliament (symbol of London), called officially the Palace of Westminster, were a place for kings and queens.

The Clock Tower called “Big Ben”, is known the world over. Its hour bell is named after Sir Benjamin Hall, the first Commissioners of Works.

Parliament represents the legislative branch.

Parliament in Britain has existed since 1265. Having been organized in the reign of King Edward I, it is the oldest parliament in the world.

Parliament consists of two chambers or houses:
the House of Lords
and
the House of Commons.

The House of Lords.

The House of Lords consists of more than 1000 peers:
“Lords spiritual” and 24 bishops of the Church of England.
Benches in the Houses of Lords are coloured red. The Throne and canopy are located at one end of the chamber.

The House of Commons.