Overview

This bill proposes major reforms to the House of Lords, introducing elections for members, removing all hereditary peers, and reducing the number of voting members to 292. A four-year transitional period is included, during which a combination of elected and existing life peers will sit and vote.

Description

The bill eliminates all remaining hereditary peers from the House of Lords. It establishes elections for members, with England divided into nine regions, and Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland each forming a single region. A regional list system will be used in Great Britain, while Northern Ireland will employ a single transferable vote system. The initial election will be held on the first Thursday of June following a 12-month period after the bill's passage. Each elected member will serve an eight-year term.

For a four-year transitional period, 146 life peers will sit and vote alongside 146 elected members. After this period, the House will consist of 292 elected members, with other life peers and Lords Spiritual able to sit but not vote. The selection of the 146 transitional members will be based on their attendance, speaking contributions, and voting record in the three years before the bill’s passage. Eligibility to stand for election mirrors House of Commons rules, while voting eligibility is aligned with parliamentary elections. The bill also incorporates existing electoral offences legislation.

Government Spending

The bill doesn't provide specific figures for government spending. However, costs will be associated with organizing and administering the elections, establishing the new electoral system, and potential adjustments to parliamentary infrastructure. Further details would need to be included in future budget allocations.

Groups Affected

• Hereditary Peers: Will lose their seats in the House of Lords.
• Life Peers: 146 will be selected for a transitional period, retaining voting rights for four years, before becoming non-voting members.
• Voters in the UK: Will gain the right to vote in House of Lords elections.
• Political Parties: Will need to adapt to the new electoral system and participate in the elections.
• Electoral Commission: Will have responsibilities for overseeing the elections.
• House of Lords Administration: Will need to adapt to a changed composition and electoral processes.

Powered by nyModel