Woman to head Britain's 'men in tights'

Britain's "men in tights" have their first female chief.

The House of Commons security unit, which won the nickname because of their traditional dress includes stockings and buckled boots, said Wednesday that former advertising executive Jill Pay will lead the department.

Pay becomes sergeant-at-arms, a centuries old role that combines responsibility for law and order in the Commons with ceremonial duties.

Currently an assistant sergeant, Pay takes over from Maj. Gen. Peter Peterkin, who retired in December.

The sergeant-at-arms is the only person still permitted to carry a sword into the Commons chamber and holds a ceremonial mace aloft during the elaborate opening ritual ahead of each day's sitting.

Commons records claim lawmakers stopped wearing swords to debates after an 18th century legislator's blade cut through another's wig and whipped it from his head.

Pay will lead a staff of about 40 people charged with maintaining security.

Security in the Houses of Parliament — home to both the Commons and House of Lords — has been strengthened following a spate of intrusions in recent years.

Otis Ferry, son of rock star Bryan Ferry, and seven other men sneaked into the Commons chamber in 2004 in a pro-fox hunting protest. Months earlier, fathers' rights campaigners hurled purple powder at then-Prime Minister Tony Blair from the public gallery.

But Commons authorities have resisted appeals from some lawmakers to hand over security duties to police who patrol Parliament's exterior, which is lined with officers, security posts and barricades.

Parliament's first sergeant-at-arms was appointed by Henry V in 1415.

Pay, who is marred with two daughters, will be expected to regularly don a lavish costume — based on the dress of England's ancient royal court.

The outfit includes silver-buckled shoes, white kid gloves, a cocked hat — which is carried under the arm — lace cuffs, a bow tie, knee-breeches, stockings and a ceremonial sword.