Oath of Allegiance

After election to the Commons an MP must swear an Oath of Allegiance before taking their seat. While holding a copy of the New Testament (or, in the case of a Jew or Muslim, the Old Testament or the Koran) a Member swears: "I…..swear by Almighty God that I will be faithful and bear true allegiance to Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth, her heirs and successors, according to law. So help me God." Members who object to oath swearing may make a Solemn Affirmation instead. Further information can be obtained from factsheet M7 at the UK Parliament site. The Oath of Allegiance must be taken, or Solemn Affirmation made, by every Lord, on Introduction and at the beginning of every new Parliament, before he or she can sit and vote in the House of Lords.

contributed by user local yokel