Overview

This bill proposes the creation of a House of Lords Appointments Commission to advise the Prime Minister on nominations for life peerages. The Commission will ensure greater transparency and fairness in the appointment process, aiming for a more balanced and representative 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. At least four members must be independent of any political party, and at least four must be Privy Counsellors. The Commission will advise the Prime Minister on all peerage nominations, ensuring nominees meet specific criteria, including "conspicuous merit" and a willingness to contribute to the House of Lords' work. The Commission can also propose its own candidates, who must be politically independent. The bill sets principles for peerage recommendations, aiming for at least 20% independent members in the House of Lords, no single party holding an absolute majority, and limiting the House of Lords size to that of the House of Commons. Party leaders must provide information about their nomination processes to the Commission. The commission will determine its own rules and procedures, except where specifically stated in the bill.

Government Spending

The bill does not specify the exact cost of establishing and running the Commission. The financial implications will depend on factors such as staff salaries, office space, and operational expenses. Further details regarding the associated expenditure are not readily available within the provided text.

Groups Affected

• The Prime Minister: Will be required to consult the Commission before recommending peerages, impacting their power to directly appoint peers.
• Political Parties: Will need to provide information about their nomination processes to the Commission, potentially affecting their influence over the House of Lords composition.
• Potential Peers: Will be subject to a more rigorous vetting process, with criteria set by the Commission and increased emphasis on merit and independence.
• The House of Lords: Will likely see a more diverse and independent membership over time, as a result of the new appointment process.
• The Public: Will be able to nominate people for peerages via the Commission.

Powered by nyModel