New Privy Councillors appointed

The Queen hold council meetings at her palaces

Five Labour MPs have been appointed to the Privy Council, which advises the Queen in carrying out her duties as Monarch.

The 500-strong council stems from the circle of advisers which used to surround the king or queen

Full meetings are rare, as the council only comes fully together on two occasions: when the monarch dies and the council proclaims the accession of their heir; and when a monarch intends to marry.

Jean Corston MP said: "It's a great honour to be made a privy councillor. 

New members

Brian Wilson MP, Cunninghame North

Margaret Hodge MP, Barking

Keith Hill MP, Streatham

Jean Corston MP, Bristol East

Tommy McAvoy MP, Glasgow Rutherglen

"This is something normally reserved for ministers and leaders of the opposition."

Membership includes all members of the Cabinet, past and present, the leaders of all major political parties, archbishops and various senior judges.

In the past, councillors were the chief governing body and undertook the role currently performed by the Cabinet.

During debates in the Commons, MPs who are councillors are referred to by as "The Right Honourable Member".

Appointment are for life, but only ministers of the government of the day participate in council policy work.