Lords Reform could be law next year

12.00.00am GMT Thu 30th Nov 2006

Commenting on reports that Life Peers will not be thrown out of the House of Lords under Government plans to reform the second chamber, Shadow Constitutional Affairs Secretary, Simon Hughes MP said:

"Discussions on the future of the Lords are making good progress. There should be a politically representative and predominately elected second chamber, with no fewer powers than at present, to act as a compliment but not as a challenge to the House of Commons.

"Existing life peers should be free to retire but hereditary peers must go. Some hereditary peers, however, may be appointed for another term in order to ensure political balance during the transitional period.

"I hope the White Paper will honestly reflect all the major options identified so that Parliament has the best possible chance of making an informed decision."