Overview

This bill proposes creating a House of Lords Appointments Commission to advise the Prime Minister on life peerage nominations. The Commission will ensure a more transparent and balanced process, aiming for greater independence and diversity within the House of Lords.

Description

The bill establishes a nine-member House of Lords Appointments Commission, nominated by the Speaker of the House of Commons and the Lord Speaker. The Commission's role is to advise the Prime Minister on all life peerage recommendations. The Prime Minister must refer all nominations to the Commission, which will assess whether candidates meet specified criteria, including "conspicuous merit" and a willingness to contribute to the House of Lords' work. The Commission will also aim for a House of Lords with at least 20% independent members, no single party holding an absolute majority, and a membership size no larger than the House of Commons. The Commission can also propose its own candidates for peerages, who must be free of party political alignment. The Commission will determine its own rules and procedures, subject to parliamentary scrutiny and approval, and will publish guidelines on its criteria and selection process.

Government Spending

The bill doesn't specify direct government spending figures. The main cost will be the salaries and operational expenses of the new Commission. Indirect costs may arise from changes to the composition of the House of Lords and any adjustments to its support structures.

Groups Affected

• Prime Minister: Their power to appoint peers will be significantly constrained by the Commission's advice.
• Political Parties: Their influence on peerage appointments will be reduced. The bill aims for a more balanced and less partisan House of Lords.
• House of Lords: The composition and operation of the House of Lords will likely change, potentially becoming more independent and diverse.
• Potential Peers: The selection process for peerages will become more transparent and rigorous.
• The Public: The public will have a greater opportunity to influence the selection of peers through nominations to the Commission. Increased transparency will also improve public understanding of the peerage appointment process.

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