In this short 5-minute podcast from a former Health & Safety officer at the UK Parliament, Rich Bunn offers a personal glimpse on the hidden realities of the Palace of Westminster: its ageing fabric, fire risks, asbestos, and the delicate, often unseen work of managing health and safety within a historic seat of power.

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Step inside the Palace of Westminster and discover the living traditions, hidden rituals, and untold stories that shape British politics. In this episode of Unseen Parliament, Rich Bunn shares insider anecdotes: from division bells and Black Rod’s ceremonial door slam to the centuries-old “hostage” tradition during the State Opening of Parliament.

Explore how history and humour collide in the corridors of power, revealing the quirks, customs, and everyday absurdities of working in the heart of UK democracy. Whether you’re a history buff, political enthusiast, or just curious about what really happens behind the scenes, this episode uncovers the secrets and living traditions that make Westminster extraordinary.

Keywords: Parliament, Westminster, British history, political traditions, UK politics, Palace of Westminster, living traditions, Parliament rituals, insider stories, State Opening, Black Rod, division bells, British democracy, political history, podcast, Buzzsprout

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What do the Lords, ladies and politicians of Parliament eat behind the closed doors and inside the fancy dining rooms of the Palace of Westminster? And how much is it costing the taxpayer. Rich Bunn investigates.

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