Four short debates in the Lords

Thursday debates

One Thursday each month, the House of Lords holds four short debates in Grand Committee. On Thursday 22 July, members debated the following subjects: 

Student exchange

Members discussed the value of cultural and educational exchanges for students, and others who may benefit from such exchanges, proposed by Earl of Clancarty (Crossbench).

Cadet forces

Members discussed the funding of cadet forces, proposed by Lord Lingfield (Conservative). 

Human rights in India

Members discussed the human rights situation in India, proposed by Lord Harries of Pentregarth (Crossbench). 

Belarus presidential elections

Members discussed the possibility of joining forces with the governments of France, Germany and the US to persaude the Russian government that it is in its interest to push for new elections in Belarus, proposed by Lord Balfe (Conservative). 

Get involved 

Watch and read  

Find out more about the issues discussed: catch up on Parliament TV or read the transcripts in Lords Hansard.

Explore further information 

Read the Lords Library briefings for the debates: 

• Student exchanges
• Cadet forces
• Human rights in India
• Belarus presidential elections

Members 

Over 40 members took part, bringing a wide range of experience and professional knowledge. 

Short debates 

Short debates are an opportunity for members to draw the government’s attention to concerns and hold it to account. They last for about 60 minutes. At the end, a  minister or spokesperson responds on behalf of the government.

Four short debates take place on one Thursday each month in Grand Committee (work away from the chamber). 

Learn more about how the House of Lords checks and challenges government.

Image: Roger Harris