Overview

This bill aims to reform the House of Lords by limiting the number of hereditary peers who can automatically become members. It also removes the disqualification of hereditary peers from voting in or standing for elections to the House of Commons.

Description

The bill's key provisions include:

• Restricting House of Lords Membership: After the first session of Parliament following their initial summons, peerages will no longer automatically grant membership to the House of Lords. Exceptions include a limited number of peers elected by existing peers and specific high-ranking roles (Earl Marshal, Lord Great Chamberlain).
• Removing House of Commons Disqualifications: Hereditary peers will no longer be automatically barred from voting in or standing for elections to the House of Commons, except for those continuing to sit in the House of Lords under the exceptions.
• Amending the House of Lords Act 1999: The Act is amended to reflect the new limits on the number of hereditary peers in the House of Lords.
• Definitions: The bill clarifies which peerages are affected, including those conferred under the Appellate Jurisdiction Act 1876 and the Life Peerages Act 1958.
• Transitional Provisions: The Secretary of State may introduce regulations to address any issues relating to the transition of this new law, covering voting rights of peers in elections to the House of Commons or European Parliament.

Government Spending

The bill is not expected to significantly increase or decrease government spending. The costs will likely be associated with administrative changes and potentially the implementation of any transitional regulations.

Groups Affected

• Hereditary Peers: Most will lose their automatic right to sit in the House of Lords, although a limited number can be elected. They will gain the right to vote and stand for election to the House of Commons (except for those remaining in the Lords under the exception).
• House of Lords: The composition of the House of Lords will change, with a reduction in the number of hereditary peers.
• House of Commons: Hereditary peers will be able to vote and stand for election.
• The Electorate: The electorate will have the option to vote for hereditary peers in general elections.

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