Serjeant-at-arms (UK and Commonwealth)

A serjeant-at-arms, or sergeant-at-arms is an officer appointed by a deliberative body, usually a legislature, to keep order during its meetings. The word "serjeant" is derived from the Latin serviens, which means "servant". Historically, serjeants-at-arms were armed men retained by English lords and monarchs, and the ceremonial maces with which they are associated were in origin a type of weapon.[1] ("Sergeant" is a modern UK and North American variant spelling).[2]

The Serjeant-at-Arms of the House of Commons is responsible for security matters concerning the House of Commons. The Serjeant, whilst in the Commons overseeing proceedings, can also escort MPs out of the chamber by order of the Speaker of the House. The post dates back to 1415, and has often been held by retired military or police figures (though in recent years those from a civil service background have been appointed). The current Serjeant-at-Arms is Kamal El-Hajji (appointed in December 2015); he was previously the head of Front of House and VIP Relations at the Ministry of Justice from 2010.

The equivalent officer for the House of Lords is the Gentleman Usher of the Black Rod; there was formerly a separate Serjeant-at-Arms of the House of Lords, but the two appointments were merged in 1971 (since when the mace has routinely been carried by Black Rod's deputy, the Yeoman Usher).

The Royal Household In addition to the above-mentioned officers there are other Serjeants-at-Arms who attend the Sovereign on State occasions, a remnant of the body established by Richard I (though today their role is purely ceremonial). Usually, members of the Royal Household who serve as Serjeants-at-Arms have had the office bestowed on them as a mark of distinction for long and meritorious service.[18]

Insignia The Mace serves as a symbol of royal and parliamentary authority. Ten maces are kept in the Jewel House at the Tower of London in addition to those kept by the House of Commons, the House of Lords and the Lord Chancellor. As well as carrying their Maces, on State occasions each Serjeant-at-Arms wears a Collar of esses as a symbol of his or her office.