Understanding the Role and Attendance of Members of the House of Lords

The House of Lords, a component of the British Parliament, plays a significant role in the legislative process. However, it functions in a manner that differs from other legislative bodies around the world. Understanding how long members of the House of Lords serve and the expectations for their attendance is crucial. This article provides insights into these aspects and the consequences of non-attendance.

Membership and Terms of Service

Members of the House of Lords, known as Lords, do not have a fixed term of service. They hold their seats for life, although they can retire or resign. Historically, the number of hereditary peers who could sit in the House was significantly higher. The House of Lords Act 1999 brought a significant reform, reducing the number of hereditary peers to just 92, while the majority of members, known as life peers, are appointed by the monarch on the advice of the Prime Minister. These life peers hold their positions during the good pleasure of the Crown, which in practice means their position is virtually permanent.

Expected Attendance and Influence

While there are no mandatory attendance requirements, it is expected that Lords actively participate in debates and committees. Their active participation contributes to the effective functioning of the House of Lords. If a member does not attend regularly, their influence and standing within the House may diminish. Regular participation not only enhances their standing but also ensures that debates and discussions remain vibrant and comprehensive. However, formal penalties for non-attendance are not in place. Instead, the House of Lords has a system in place to monitor attendance. If a member does not attend for a defined period, typically around a year, they can be removed from the register of Lords. This removal is more about maintaining the active participation of members rather than being a punitive measure.

Compensation and Incentives

Regular attendance is crucial for several reasons. Each day the chamber sits, attendance is paid a per diem of ￡313, along with a limited travel allowance. Therefore, if a member does not attend, they do not receive these allowances. This financial incentive can be significant for many members. However, it’s important to note that this system was introduced in 2014. Prior to this, there was no formal mechanism for retirement or removal based on attendance, highlighting the importance of regular participation.

Inflexible Membership and Reform

The current membership includes a total of 774 members. Despite the reform in the late 1990s, which significantly reduced the number of hereditary peers, the House still has a substantial number of members. Life peers, who cannot be passed on to children, have become the dominant group, making up the majority of the House. This flexible system, where there are no term limits for members, allows for a large and diverse membership but also poses challenges in maintaining active participation and maximum efficiency.

In conclusion, the House of Lords operates under unique conditions that combine lifelong membership with variable levels of active participation. While there are no formal penalties for non-attendance, the expectations for regular participation are high, and the benefits of regular attendance are significant. Understanding these aspects is crucial for anyone seeking to navigate the inner workings of the House of Lords.