Penny Mordaunt – Pomp and Circumstance

Pomp & Circumstance explores Britain’s traditions – both the ancient and the new.

Penny Mordaunt, who in her ceremonial role as Lord President of the Privy Council famously carried the Sword of State and presented the Sword of Offering to King Charles III at his coronation, examines areas of traditional British culture – including the monarchy, Parliament, the law, sport and local traditions, as well as values including sacrifice, courage and remembrance. She shows how a country often thought of as old-fashioned actually uses its unique historical conventions to navigate the future.   

Far from being a brake on progress, British traditions – from the magnificent to the silly - offer a predictable rhythm to life, promote values, encourage reflection and create a sense of continuity while allowing room for innovation and growth. 

In conversation with Jonathan Morrell.