LOCAL people worrying about unemployment — particularly those in Blackrod - might be interested to know that an interesting job is up for grabs in London.

The House of Lords is seeking applications for the post of Black Rod and Serjeant-at-Arms when it becomes vacant in April next year.

This position, which dates back to the 14th century, used to be carved-up so that representatives of the army, Royal Navy and RAF took it in turns to carry the ebony staff topped with a golden lion that gives the office its name.

But in 2002, in one of the lesser-known and more pointless New Labour initiatives, the opportunity was thrown open to the entire country through public advertisements.

There were apparently 76 applications and Sir Michael Willcocks was appointed. The fact that he was a former Lieutenant General who used to be the UK military representative to NATO might suggest there were no great changes in selection methods.

Still, the appearance of a job advertisement in the public prints provides a faint whiff of democratic reform.

It might just be that somebody sifting through Society Guardian could fancy this challenging role in preference to something involving social services or Amnesty International.

I doubt it, though.

According to the advertisement, the Black Rod job, which involves being responsible for security and contingency planning in the House of Lords, access to the Chamber and organising ceremonial events, is suitable for someone at senior level in the public or private sectors with proven leadership and administrative skills.Essential qualities include the ability to work in a complex political environment and experience in the area of security.

I cannot help thinking that senior military figures will always have the advantage over just about anybody else who might fancy dressing up a bit for the State Opening of Parliament and being seen on telly.

In order to symbolise the Commons’ independence from the sovereign, the doors to the Chamber are always slammed in Black Rod’s face when he approaches and he is required to strike them three times with his staff and answer “Black Rod” when somebody, who you would expect to know by now, asks “Who is there?”

The door is then opened and the MPs follow Black Rod back to the Lords to hear the Queen’s Speech.

Something of a doddle, you might think, but this is obviously a top job that needs to be done by the right kind of chap.

“The House of Lords is committed to equal opportunities”, it says in the advertisement.

Really?

I will believe it if the person eventually appointed is a disabled female pensioner from an ethic minority.

There is as much chance of that as Black Rod being a former call centre manager from Blackrod.

If anybody reading this wishes to apply you need to know that your form should be returned by Wednesday, but I cannot help feeling that this is an empty exercise that is a waste of time and public money.

The new incumbent is likely to be somebody rather similar to previous holders of the ancient office.