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| For Whom The Bells Toll. |
If you are ever enjoying a drink in a pub near the Palace of Westminster, such as The Marquis of Granby, The Red Lion, St Stephen's Tavern or the Westminster Arms, among others, and you hear a shrill, insistent ringing that isn't the fire alarm... don't panic. That distinctive, urgent chime is the sound of democracy in action: The Parliamentary Division Bell.
It's one of the most charmingly archaic, yet fundamentally critical, pieces of infrastructure in the UK's political landscape. Far from being a mere novelty, the Division Bell is the key to how votes are cast in the House of Commons and the House of Lords, dictating the pace of political life in Westminster.
In the UK Parliament, a formal vote is known as a 'Division' because members literally divide into two opposing lobbies to be counted.
The Speaker Puts the Question: A debate then ensues and, when it ends, the Speaker of the House of Commons asks for "Ayes" (in favour) and "Noes" (against) to shout for their support. If the result isn't clear, or a Member challenges the Speaker's judgement, the Speaker announces, "Division, clear the lobby!" or, "Clear the Bar!" in the Lords. This is the moment the Division Bell springs to life.
