k9assistance by Caesar ~ Caesar goes to Westminster ... again!

Caesar goes to Westminster ... again! ...Home of the United Kingdom Parliament 19th November 2003
Following our first visit to Westminster in the summer fo this year, Caesar and I were invited back by our own Member of Parliament (M.P.), Annette Brooke.
19th November was a very hectic day at Westminster as it was the first full day of President Bushs' Official State Visit to England. The security checks were rigorous, there were demonstrators outside Parliament and a general air of excitement prevailed about the place.
We travelled from Poole on an early train and then took a taxi to The House. Even the taxi had to pass through security and it was checked under the bonnet, in the boot and underneath the main body of the vehicle.
We were met by The Serjeant at Arms and Annette Brooke M.P.
The first thing we saw was the procession of the Speaker of The House and The Mace, then we made our way to The Strangers Gallery. This is the public gallery for The House of Commons. Security here was tight, and soon we were seated ready for Prime Ministers Questions. What followed was a very lively debate, during which two people were ejected from The Strangers Gallery, one for unfurling a banner and one for shouting out comments about President Bush when Tony Blair, The Prime Minister was speaking.
Lunch in the members Dining Room was next on the agenda, as expected, Caesar behaved impeccably in such splendid surroundings. He settled quietly on the floor beside our table, but still managed to attract attention and turn a few heads!

Caesar reading The Order Paper in The Members Dining Room!

After lunch we visited Westminster Hall, The House of Lords and The House of Commons Terrace.

Wendy & Caesar in Westminster Hall

Wendy & Caesar with The State Coach, Westminster Hall

Wendy & Caesar with Annette Brooke on The Terrace

What's over there?

"What's over there, Mum?"

Views East & West from the Terrace

At around 5pm there was just time for a quick garden visit for Caesar before we were into a taxi and on our way to our hotel.
It was an absolutely fascinating day, tiring for us, but it must have been just as much so for Annette who was working, and had taken her seat on the floor of The House, attended several Divisions and done a press interview during our visit.
Many thanks to Annette, Peta & Susan for making the arrangements for such a memorable day.
You can see Caesars' diary of his day at Westminster here