Baroness Williams of Trafford (Con)

My Lords, sometimes in this House, it feels like our years should be measured in dog years, particularly when you are in opposition. As this year draws to a close, it is a pleasure to follow the Government Chief Whip in paying tribute to those who make the work of this House possible and who will be leaving us for pastures new. Not only do all staff members play a crucial role in the operation of this House but their kindness and courtesy make for a welcoming place for all of us. Joao De Frietas, more affectionately known as Alberto, began his career just before the turn of this century in the Peers’ Dining Room. He soon became a familiar face, successfully going on to manage events in the Cholmondeley Room and the Terrace. Since 2018, he has been bar manager for the Woolsack, where he has been keeping morale high on the Parliamentary Estate. Throughout his time here, he was very well liked by his colleagues and regulars at the Woolsack. He will be much missed, and we wish him and his family very well for the future. Neil Baverstock will be leaving Black Rod’s office this Christmas. For the past 12 years, he has been known for his unfailing dependability as the 23rd Yeoman Usher—the longest serving for 65 years. His sense of public duty, from when he trained at Sandhurst until now, is one from which we can all take inspiration. He has been a model of high standards, with a very cool head in challenging moments. I am told that his buzz-phrases are now a permanent part of parliamentary folklore. My favourite has to be, “My Lords, I’m going to run through the plan. I must be clear that this is a plan, not a discussion document”. He has certainly left his mark, being trusted with the Palace’s arrangements for the late Queen Elizabeth II’s lying in state and Operation Marquee. We know that behind every good man is a good woman, and we must thank his wife Alison for her support. This is a legacy of which they should both be proud, and they leave with our sincere gratitude.