Member

Of course, they do, and often in unexpected, unseen ways. Always in what were historic years, Sarah was at the heart of things, managing subtle change and maintaining continuity. As noble Lords will be aware, I had the honour as Leader of working alongside her during some of the most significant and sensitive occasions in recent history, when the eyes of the country —indeed, the world, as the Leader said—were focused on events here in Parliament, not least the lying-in-state and state funeral of Her late Majesty. Sarah’s leadership then was in every sense impressive and indispensable. I can truthfully say that not a single foot was put wrong as those extraordinary, silent, never-ending, never to be forgotten queues filed past to pay their respects to the Queen—a moment of solemn national reflection quite impeccably staged.