Overview

This bill amends the rules governing membership of the House of Lords. It introduces provisions for permanent leave of absence, automatic expulsion for serious criminal convictions, and clarifies the right to vote and stand for election to the House of Commons after losing a House of Lords seat.

Description

The bill outlines several key changes to House of Lords membership:

Permanent Leave of Absence

Members can apply for permanent leave of absence, granted at the discretion of the House of Lords. Alternatively, members who do not attend Parliament for over six months during a session (excluding those in the armed forces or diplomatic service, or with reasonable justification approved by a designated body) will be automatically deemed to have taken permanent leave.

Consequences of Leave of Absence

Granting of permanent leave, whether by application or default, results in the loss of membership of the House of Lords.

Expulsion for Criminal Convictions

A member convicted of a crime resulting in imprisonment of over one year (in the UK or abroad) automatically loses their seat. The House of Lords can overturn this expulsion in cases of convictions outside the UK.

Right to Vote and Stand for Commons

Individuals who lose their House of Lords seat under this bill are not barred from voting or standing for election to the House of Commons, unless otherwise disqualified by law.

Government Spending

The bill is not expected to have a significant direct impact on government spending. Any administrative costs associated with implementing the new rules would likely be minimal.

Groups Affected

• Members of the House of Lords: This bill directly affects their membership status, potentially leading to loss of seat through leave of absence or criminal conviction.
• The House of Lords Administration: The bill will require updates to internal procedures and potentially necessitate additional administrative work.
• Individuals convicted of serious crimes: This bill clarifies the consequences of a criminal conviction for House of Lords members.
• Voters and potential candidates for the House of Commons: The bill clarifies the eligibility of former House of Lords members to participate in elections.

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