BBC Democracy Live - Prorogation of Parliament 25 April 2013 Last updated at 16:13 Help MPs and peers formally marked the end of the current parliamentary year in a ceremony known as prorogation, on 25 April 2013. The new Parliament will be ushered in at the State Opening of Parliament on 8 May. The Gentleman Usher of the Black Rod summons MPs to attend the House of Lords as any outstanding acts are given royal assent. By ancient tradition, legislation which has passed all parliamentary stages is given royal assent in Norman French using the words "La Reyne le veult," which roughly translates as "the Queen wills it." The Royal Commission were present in the House of Lords, donning ceremonial robes and caps. At the end of the ceremony, it is customary for MPs to shake the hand of the Commons Speaker as they file out of the chamber.