House of Lords reform

The House of Lords had always exercised a right of veto over all legislation passed by the House of Commons. The Parliament Act 1911 was the first attempt at reform, after which the powers and composition of the House were gradually transformed. There was disagreement in the Commons and the Lords at every step, and the reform process continues to this day.

Overview

A battle for supremacy between the Commons and Lords

Key dates

Key dates

When were the two Parliament Acts passed? Key dates in the relationship between Lower and Upper House

Contemporary context

Contemporary context

From "Mr Balfour's Poodle" to an elected Chamber? The House of Lords in the early 21st century

Expert interviews

Further your research

Further your research

More in depth sources of information on the Parliament Acts and the role of the Lords

From the Parliamentary collections

Related information

Read about the current role and daily business of the House of Lords