MPs representing constituencies in Gedling borough have taken their oaths of allegiance following last week’s general election.
Michelle Welsh, MP for Sherwood Forest and Michael Payne, MP for Gedling chose to swear on the King James Bible. Both were elected as Labour MPs.
Mr Payne said: “It’s the honour of my life to represent my hometown – the community I love so much.”
Ms Welsh described becoming MP for Sherwood Forest as ‘an absolute privilege’.
She said: “Thank you for putting your faith in me.”
All MPs must take an oath of allegiance to the Crown, either being sworn in with a religious text or using a secular affirmation.
MPs cannot speak in debates, vote or receive a salary until they have taken their oath or affirmation.
Those MPs taking the oath say: “I swear by Almighty God that I will be faithful and bear true allegiance to His Majesty King Charles, his heirs and successors, according to law. So help me God.”
And those MPs taking the affirmation say: “I do solemnly, sincerely, and truly declare and affirm, that I will be faithful and bear true allegiance to His Majesty King Charles, his heirs and successors, according to law.”
This parliament will be formally opened with the King’s Speech on Wednesday, July 17.
