The scene began with three advisers appointed by the queen telling another senior official, a woman named "Black Rod" — real name Sarah Clarke — to summon the House of Commons. makes her debut in the chamber.The first female Black Rod in the House of Lords was cheered as she took on her duties today.Peers gave Sarah Clarke a … The first female Black Rod has been presented with her ceremonial staff by the Queen at Buckingham Palace. It comes after she was officially appointed by the Queen last week. The monarch invested Sarah Clarke as Lady Usher of the Black Rod in the private audience room at Buckingham Palace.