Ex-army chief named new Black Rod

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The Queen has appointed a new Black Rod - the senior official responsible for the day to day management of the Lords.

Lt Gen Sir Freddie Viggers will take over the £81,600 a year role from Sir Michael Willcocks, who has retired.

Sir Freddie has been head of army personnel and took a senior role with UK forces in Iraq.

Black Rod is one of Britain's most famous ceremonial positions, whose duties include summoning MPs to hear the Queen's Speech.

Black Rod is best known for knocking on the doors of the House of Commons after they are slammed in his face during the State Opening of Parliament.

The job also involves being the Queen's representative to peers, overseeing budgets and security, and managing a staff of 30.

But Sir Freddie is likely to have fewer duties than his predecessor, with a new, £100,000 "director general of facilities" taking over some of the running of the Lords offices.

Sir Freddie hit the headlines last year after BBC News exposed the condition of forces housing in the UK. He said defence chiefs must "fight our corner... to get our families what they deserve".