Second Reading

The Government, represented by the Paymaster General and Minister for the Cabinet Office, introduced the House of Lords (Hereditary Peers) Bill, which aims to remove the right of hereditary peers to sit and vote in the House of Lords. The Minister argued that in the 21st century, it is indefensible for people to have a position in Parliament based solely on their ancestry. He stated that this reform is a matter of principle for the Government, committed to fairness and equality. The official opposition, led by the shadow Minister John Glen, responded by criticizing the Bill as lacking ambition and being rushed through without proper scrutiny or cross-party engagement. The opposition argued that this piecemeal reform should be part of a broader package of changes to the House of Lords, and expressed concern about the potential for the Government to pack the upper chamber with political appointees. The ensuing debate saw a wide range of views expressed. Some Conservative members, such as the right hon. Members for Hertsmere and South Holland and The Deepings, argued that the Bill should be part of a more comprehensive reform process, while others, like the hon. Member for Romford, defended the hereditary principle and the role of the House of Lords. Labour and Liberal Democrat members generally welcomed the Bill as a step in the right direction, but called for further reforms to make the upper chamber more democratic and representative. Several maiden speeches were delivered, with new MPs from across the political spectrum outlining their priorities and visions for their constituencies. The debate also touched on issues such as the role of the Church of England bishops in the House of Lords, the appointment of life peers, and the need to restore public trust in politics. Ultimately, the House voted to reject the opposition's reasoned amendment and proceed with the Second Reading of the Bill, which was approved. The Government made clear that this legislation is the first step in a broader reform process for the House of Lords, which they are committed to pursuing over the course of this Parliament.