Woolsack

The Woolsack is the seat of the Lord Chancellor (or since 2006 of the Lord Speaker) in the British House of Lords. He is a large, stuffed with wool pillows. He is covered with red fabric and has neither arms nor back. The staff of office of Lord Chancellor is placed on the back of the Woolsack.

The first pad of this type was introduced in the 14th century and was originally stuffed with English wool. It symbolized the importance of the wool industry and the wealth of the country. Nowadays, however, wool is used in many countries of the Commonwealth, to symbolize the unity of the Commonwealth.

The Lord Chancellor may speak of the Woolsack from when he does so in his capacity as Council President. However, he takes part in the debate, he or she must either do left standing from the Woolsack, or take on the normal seats of Lords Place.

The Woolsack there until the dissolution in 1800 in the former Irish House of Lords.

• Politics (United Kingdom)
• Raumtextilie