UK Parliament’s 2022 Christmas Tree, gifted by Forestry England, has taken centre stage in the heart of the Parliamentary Estate at Westminster.
The tree, transported from Northumberland’s Kielder Forest, stands at 41 feet (12.5m) and was installed in New Palace Yard today by Parliamentary staff. Owing to its size and location, a crane was used to lift the tree into position.
Sir Lindsay Hoyle, Speaker of the House of Commons, said:
“Like so many people, I cannot wait for this year’s normal Christmas – and seeing the arrival of the tree in Parliament means the festivities can begin.
‘We are very grateful to Forestry England for donating the tree – and to keep the anticipation going, we will be waiting until 5 December for the big switch on and Carol service. This will also give me a chance to thank everyone for their hard work during a particularly momentous year.”
The Lord Speaker, Lord McFall of Alcluith said:
“The lighting of the Christmas tree in Parliament for me signals the beginning of a happy and peaceful period across the nation. This Christmas will be the first in many years when we can gather more confidently with our friends, families and colleagues, and I for one can’t wait. We owe huge thanks again to Forestry England for helping bring the Christmas cheer to Parliament.”
Another 25ft (7.6m) tree has been delivered to Westminster Hall and a 12ft tree will stand in the Speaker’s House.
In January the trees will be recycled and sent to be chipped and used for composting.
