Both Houses of Parliament are, by international standards, exceptionally large; indeed, we have the largest Parliament in the democratic world. David Cameron, in an interview with The Financial Times, has suggested that the number of seats in the House of Commons be reduced by sixty. When I chaired the Commission to Strengthen Parliament, established by…
I know from comments made to me by readers, as well as from the blog data, that the quiz questions are very popular. I have visions of the blog being read by many who devise pub quizzes – if it is, then excellent. I thought I would pose a quick question. I have no doubt…
The upper floor in the south-east corner of the Palace comprises what used to be the residence of the Lord Chancellor. It includes a magnificent room, overlooking the Thames, called – not surprisingly – the River Room. Its use is now within the responsibility of the Lord Speaker. She has made it available primarily for charitable and…
Here’s a question to start off the New Year. I like to think that it is Google-proof, but no doubt I shall soon be proved wrong! The answer can be gleaned, though, by a bit of careful research. Here are the clues: 1. I sit in the House of Lords. 2. I am unusual in…
Both Houses of Parliament are among the busiest legislative chambers in the world. 2008 has been a busy one for the House of Lords, though no more than usual. Some of it activities have attracted media attention – as over the defeat of the proposal for detention without charge for 42 days – but they are very much…
