Entry into the House of Lords

Grey's maiden speech in the House of Lords

Parliamentary Archives, HAN/1/10

On 14th November 1807, Charles Grey's father died and Grey inherited the title of Earl Grey. During this period a group of more radical Whigs began to attempt to revive the party with plans for Parliamentary reform. Grey desired to avoid splitting the party, and his relationship with radical groups became antagonistic and unpleasant.

What issues did he champion in the House of Lords during this period?

In 1810, Earl Grey took up the cause of Catholic emancipation. When the Irish Catholics began to organise again, Grey offered his support. In 1810 he presented a petition from the English Catholics to the House of Lords. He tried to restrain extreme views in order to reach a compromise. However, this was unsatisfactory and no progress was made on the issue.

Related information

The De Montfort Project is an outreach project run by the Parliamentary Archives which explores the life and impact of local MPs and Peers on both their local area and at Parliament.