What the Lords is for examined in reform debate

Lord Hunt of Kings Heath introduced the debate. Lord Taylor of Holbeach responded for the Government.

• Watch the debate: Lords reform
• Lords Hansard: Read a transcript of the debate

Topics under discussion included:

• the number of Members in the governing coalition parties compared to opposition Members 
• the danger of creation of a Chamber that would undermine the authority of the House of Commons
• whether the Lords is doing enough to cover all areas on public policy and improve the Chamber's performance
• whether changes to the House of Lords should take place without the powers of the second chamber being clearly stated
• whether an elected House of Lords would automatically undermine the power of the House of Commons 
• the value of the range of expertise and experience of members of the House of Lords as the House is currently composed
• the case for reform and the value of a written constitution in the context this debate.

Further information

• Parliament news: New Leaders’ Group to consider retirement for Members 
• Lords Hansard: read the transcript of the House of Lords reform debate 
• Parliament News: House of Lords reform