Caroline Lucas, the Green Party's first MP yesterday, 20 May, marked her formal oath to the Queen with an additional pledge to the constituents of Brighton and the UK.

MPs are required by law to swear or affirm their allegiance to the Queen, but there is no requirement to state they are beholden to anyone else. Today (Thursday) in the House of Commons Caroline stated her commitment to her constituents and the country as a whole.

The pledge will form the cornerstone of her work as a Member of Parliament.

She said: "I commit to serve all those who live or work in the constituency of Brighton Pavilion;

"To further the principles and priorities of those who voted Green across the country;

"And to speak out for those who are affected by the work of Parliament but have no direct voice there, including people in other countries, future generations, and the natural world."

After making her pledge Caroline said: "My first formal task as an MP was to elect the Speaker, and my second was to swear an oath of allegiance to the Queen.

"However on Thursday afternoon I also made a broader pledge to my constituents and the country as a whole.

"It was also important for me to show my respect to the peoples of other countries and to future generations."

For more information, please contact the Brighton and Hove Green Party office on 01273 766 670.