THE MACE
The Mace, which rests on the far end of the Table of the 
House when the Commons is in session, has been the 
symbol of the House's authority for many centuries. It is 
carried in the Speaker's Procession to the chamber every 
day by the Serjeant at Arms. When the house goes into 
Committee, the Mace is transferred to two supports 
below the table. Disrespect for the Mace is taken to imply 
contempt for the House. During this century, three MPs 
have laid their hands on the Mace in moments of anger. 

The current Mace dates from 1660, and has been in use since 1819. 
It is thought to have been made up from two maces, with orb and cross added later.