Lords debates electoral map and rental sector
12 July 2012
Lords will be debating two issues in the chamber today (Thursday 12 July). The first debate, scheduled for 11.30am, will look at political representation and democratic implications of the Boundary Commission proposals. This will be followed by a debate on problems faced by families in the rented housing sector.
- Watch the debates on Parliament TV from 11.30am
- Read the Lords Hansard report (three hours after each debate)
- List of scheduled speakers (external website)
First debate: Boundary Commission proposals
This debate will explore the implications for political representation and democracy within the current proposals by the parliamentary Boundary Commission and matters relating to electoral administration.
Lords with an interest in local politics, including some ex-councillors and former MPs are listed to take part. Baroness Smith of Basildon (Labour) will speak from her experience as a vice president of the Local Government Association. Lord Rennard (Liberal Democrat) also has an interest in the subject as director of Make Votes Count, who campaign for electoral choice.
Lord Wallace of Saltaire (Liberal Democrat), who has an interest in constitutional affairs, will respond on behalf of the government.
Second debate: Rental housing
Members will turn their attention to problems faced by families in rental housing.
Vice president of Shelter, Baroness Rendell of Babergh (Labour), will open the debate. Other members with an interest in housing issues scheduled to speak include Lord Greaves (Liberal Democrat), also a Local Government Association vice president, and Lord Sawyer (Labour), a former chairman of the Labour Home Policy Committee.
Baroness Hanham (Conservative), minister for the Department for Communities and Local Government will respond on behalf of the government.