Sir Keir Starmer is preparing to appoint around 25 new Labour peers before Christmas, sparking accusations of cronyism. The list is expected to include former union leaders, party staff, and senior advisers, including Rachel Reeves's outgoing chief of staff, Katie Martin.
The appointments aim to strengthen Labour's position in the House of Lords, where the Conservatives currently hold 283 seats to Labour's 210. The government has faced opposition from peers on legislation such as renters' rights and the employment rights bill, prompting the need to rebalance the chamber.
Among those tipped for peerages are former Downing Street communications director Matthew Doyle, ex-Usdaw general secretary Paddy Lillis, and veteran Labour aide Carol Linforth. The Conservatives are also expected to appoint a handful of new peers, while Reform UK has not received any despite a request from Nigel Farage.
The move has drawn criticism from opponents who accuse Starmer of packing the Lords with allies. Labour's manifesto pledged to reform the upper house, including a mandatory retirement age of 80 and participation requirements, but critics argue these appointments contradict that promise.
The House of Lords Appointments Commission has already met to discuss the proposed list, which follows last December's appointment of 30 new Labour peers, including Sue Gray.
