The History of Parliament Trust, in partnership with publisher St James’s House, will be launching its new publication The Story of Parliament: Celebrating 750 years of parliament in Britain at Westminster Abbey next Monday, on June 22.
More than 300 VIP guests, including prominent historians, politicians and senior public figures, will gather to mark the publication of the new book, which celebrates 750 years since Simon de Montfort’s Parliament of 1265, a key moment in the origins of parliament, at a champagne reception in the Cloisters of Westminster Abbey.
The History of Parliament Trust is a research project creating a comprehensive account of parliamentary politics. Unparalleled in the comprehensiveness of its treatment, it is generally regarded as one of the most ambitious, authoritative and well-researched projects in British history. Written by a team of experts on parliamentary history, The Story of Parliament charts the rise of parliament in Britain over the centuries and explores how it has been instrumental in shaping the country, as we know it today.
The Cloisters of Westminster Abbey is a fitting venue for the launch, as guests will have access to the Chapter House, where the earliest House of Commons is known to have met in the mid-13th century.
A selection of schools from around the country has been invited to join in with the celebrations. Pupils have been tasked with producing their own interpretation of parliament through art and creative writing, and these artworks will be on display at the launch event.
“It has been a great honour to work with the History of Parliament Trust on this publication,” says St James’s House Director, Richard Freed. “Westminster Abbey is the perfect venue for the launch of a book that celebrates the incredible impact parliament has made through the centuries, from its origins through to the modern day.”
Notes to editors
A limited number of press spaces are available for the book launch. For information, please contact Katie Shale, Events Manager, at katie.shale@stjamess.org or on 020 8371 4026.
For more information about the book, please contact Stephen Mitchell, Editor, at stephen.mitchell@stjamess.org or on 020 8371 4045.
St James’s House is a leading London-based publisher. High-resolution photos of the book and launch will be available on request.
