Our MP was due to turn up, but sent his apologies on the day.  But our tour guide was excellent, taking us through both the House of Commons and the House of Lords, explaining very well how the seat of government works, the etiquette and why it takes a long time to get anything done. After lunch people went off to do various other sights and some went back into the visitor galley for a second dose to see some of the afternoon action in the House.