Overview

This bill aims to limit the number of voting members in the House of Lords to 650. It introduces a compulsory retirement process for existing peers to achieve this limit and places a temporary restriction on new peer appointments.

Description

The bill sets a maximum of 650 voting peers in the House of Lords, effective June 1st, 2015. Between October 24th, 2014, and June 1st, 2015, no more than 45 new peers can be appointed (excluding archbishops, bishops, and replacements for hereditary peers). If the number of voting peers exceeds 650 on May 1st, 2015, a compulsory retirement process will reduce the number to the limit. Retirement will be based on seniority (length of time as a peer), with the longest-serving peers retiring first. This compulsory retirement excludes archbishops, bishops, and hereditary peers. Peers can voluntarily retire before the compulsory process; upon voluntary retirement, they may choose to convert their title to a non-voting hereditary peerage.

Government Spending

The bill doesn't directly specify government spending. The administrative costs associated with the retirement process and any potential legal challenges are the main potential financial implications.

Groups Affected

• Existing Peers: Some existing peers face compulsory retirement if the number exceeds 650 on May 1st, 2015. All peers have the option of voluntary retirement.
• Aspiring Peers: The bill limits the number of new peer appointments for a specific period.
• House of Lords: The composition and functioning of the House of Lords will be directly affected by the reduced membership.
• Government: The government's ability to appoint new peers will be restricted.

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