House of Lords (Hereditary Peers) (Abolition of By-Elections) Bill [HL]

Key Points

• Abolition of by-elections for hereditary peers, moving the Lords to a wholly appointed second chamber.
• Two hereditary offices—the Earl Marshal and the Lord Great Chamberlain—would remain members of the Lords.
• Debate over transition mechanics, including potential caps on exemptions (notably a 90-person limit) and whether a commission should run future appointments.
• Efforts to ensure fair representation among hereditary peers across parties and regions, with various options and amendments explored.
• Consideration of timing, reporting requirements and sunset provisions for the transition, with several amendments proposing progress reports or reviews before full implementation.

Progress

The bill originated in the Lords and has progressed through five Lords stages, with the core abolition of by-elections agreed in Committee stage. A key amendment to keep the Earl Marshal and Lord Great Chamberlain was agreed at Report Stage. It remains under consideration in the Lords; there is no record here of Commons progress.