9.1.1 Selection of House of Commons and House of Lords Members

House of Commons

Overview:

• The House of Commons is the lower house of the UK Parliament.
• Members of Parliament (MPs) are elected to represent constituencies across the UK.
• The Commons is the primary legislative body, responsible for making and passing laws.

Election of MPs:

• General Elections: Held every five years under the Fixed-term Parliaments Act 2011, though earlier elections can be called.

House of Commons (parliament)

• By-elections: Held to fill vacancies that occur between general elections due to an MP's death or resignation.

Candidate Selection:

• Political Parties: Most MPs are members of political parties. Parties select candidates through internal processes, which may involve local party members or central party officials.
• Independent Candidates: Individuals not affiliated with any political party can stand for election.

Requirements for MPs:

1. Must be at least 18 years old.
2. Must be a British citizen, a citizen of the Republic of Ireland, or a Commonwealth citizen with indefinite leave to remain.
3. Certain individuals, such as members of the House of Lords, civil servants, and judges, are disqualified from becoming MPs.

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House of Lords

Overview:

• The House of Lords is the upper house of the UK Parliament.
• It reviews and revises legislation proposed by the House of Commons and provides expertise and independent judgment.

Types of Peers:

Appointment Process:

• Life Peers: Appointed based on merit and expertise in various fields, often recommended by political parties, non-governmental organizations, or the House of Lords Appointments Commission.
• Hereditary Peers: After the 1999 reforms, only 92 hereditary peers remain. When a hereditary peerage becomes vacant, a by-election is held within the House of Lords.
• Bishops: Automatically appointed based on their ecclesiastical position. The Archbishop of Canterbury, the Archbishop of York, the Bishops of London, Durham, and Winchester, and 21 other bishops by seniority.

Reform and Criticism:

• The composition and appointment of the House of Lords have been subjects of ongoing debate and calls for reform.
• Critics argue for a more democratic and representative system, while proponents emphasize the value of experience and expertise.

Legislative Role:

• The House of Lords reviews and amends legislation from the House of Commons.
• It can delay legislation but cannot ultimately block it.
• The Lords also engage in detailed scrutiny of bills and provide a forum for debate on key national issues.

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Conclusion

The selection processes for the House of Commons and the House of Lords are distinct, reflecting their different roles within the UK Parliament. MPs in the Commons are directly elected by the public, ensuring democratic representation, while peers in the Lords are appointed or inherited, bringing a wealth of expertise and experience to the legislative process. Understanding these processes is crucial for grasping the workings of the UK's political system.

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Exam points:

House of Lords Reform:

For:

Against: