Hereditary peers have departed the House of Lords for the final time after Labour's move to abolish their seats, bringing an end to a tradition spanning over 1,000 years. A total of 88 members who inherited their titles have lost their voting rights in the Upper House.
Criticism of Labour's Move
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has faced accusations of playing 'crude politics' with the reform, as only four of the outgoing hereditary peers are Labour members. Labour had pledged to abolish hereditary peerages in its manifesto, describing the principle of inheriting a place in the Lords as 'indefensible'.
Farewell Reception
At a reception held to mark their contribution, the Lords Speaker praised the outgoing peers, noting they had shown an 'independence of mind'. Lord Forsyth highlighted their willingness to act with 'conscience rather than convenience'. He stated: 'Hereditary peers have brought distinctive qualities to this House – an ethos of service, a long view and, not least, independence of mind. They have often shown a willingness to speak plainly, to resist passing fashions, and to act according to conscience rather than convenience.'
Lord Forsyth's comments are seen as an implicit criticism of the Prime Minister's decision to abolish inherited titles. He added: 'But the contribution of hereditaries has not all been about high politics – what is best in the tradition is the sense of obligation and stewardship, and the understanding that privilege brings duties.'
Historical Context
Tony Blair's government removed most hereditary peers in 1999, reducing their number from 750 to 92. The House of Lords (Hereditary Peers) Bill now effectively reduces that to zero, though a handful will survive. Approximately 25 will return to the Upper House as life peers, meaning they become political appointments.
