Hereditary Peerages to Be Abolished Ahead of Next King's Speech
Hereditary peerages will be abolished before the next king’s speech following an agreement that grants life peerages to certain Conservatives and cross-benchers who would otherwise lose their seats.
On Tuesday evening, the upper chamber accepted the final draft of the House of Lords (Hereditary Peers) Bill, marking the conclusion of its parliamentary passage and paving the way for its enactment into law.
Government Offers Life Peerages to Some Hereditary Peers
The Lords leader, Angela Smith, confirmed that the government will offer life peerages to some hereditary peers who would otherwise be removed from the House of Lords. This concession led to the Conservative Party withdrawing its opposition to the bill.
Since 1999, up to 92 hereditary peers have been permitted to sit in the upper house and participate in votes. The new bill effectively reduces this number to zero.
Hereditary peers who are not granted life peerages will lose their right to sit in the House of Lords once the current parliamentary session concludes, which is expected later this spring.
Principle of Ending Inherited Parliamentary Seats
Lady Smith stated:
“This has never been about the contribution of individuals but the underlying principle that was agreed by parliament over 25 years ago that no one should sit in our parliament by way of an inherited title.
“Over a quarter of a century later, hereditary peers remain while meaningful reform has stagnated. We have a duty to find a way forward.”
Lord Speaker Acknowledges Contributions of Hereditary Peers
The lord speaker, Michael Forsyth, expressed his gratitude to hereditary peers for their service in the upper chamber.
“I would like to thank hereditary peers from all parties and none for their work in the House of Lords over many years.
“Whatever views people may have of this constitutional change, it is sad to say goodbye to friends, who in many cases have contributed significantly to debate and scrutiny and to our institutional memory.
“Recognising their contribution is not about party politics but acknowledging the value of service and commitment, and I am proud to do so and to thank them.”
Timing of the King's Speech
The king’s speech is anticipated to take place in the second week of May, shortly after elections across Britain scheduled for 7 May.
