Tory former energy minister Greg Barker has taken his seat in the House of Lords.
Lord Barker of Battle was flanked by supporters Lord Browne of Madingley and Lord Black of Brentwood as he swore the oath of allegiance to the Queen.
The ex-MP for Bexhill and Battle is one of 45 new peers whose appointments were announced by the Prime Minister in August prompting charges of “cronyism” from critics.
Liberal Democrat former MP for Solihull Lorely Burt has also taken her seat in the Lords.
Baroness Burt of Solihull was flanked by supporters Lord Dholakia and Baroness Kramer for the short introduction ceremony.