Best of the Spectator Spectator Out Loud: Sophia Falkner, Roger Lewis, Olivia Potts, Aidan Hartley and Toby Young
Why Keir Starmer's Purge Threatens to Erase Britain's Hereditary Peers
Keir Starmer is set to carry out the largest removal of hereditary peers from the House of Lords since Oliver Cromwell's time, which will see prominent figures like the Duke of Wellington and Earl Howe lose their parliamentary seats.
Among those purged are distinguished individuals with diverse backgrounds, including Olympians, entrepreneurs, and environmentalists. For example, the Duke of Wellington is not only a former councillor and MEP but also an outspoken environmental advocate who has opposed government planning bills.
This purge will particularly impact crossbench hereditary peers and marks a significant shift in the traditional composition of the Lords, raising concerns about the loss of experienced lawmakers and the historic nature of the hereditary peerage in UK governance.
Starmer’s Historic Lords Purge
- Keir Starmer's planned purge of hereditary peers will remove many eccentric and experienced lawmakers.
- This is the largest active Parliament purge since Oliver Cromwell's time.
Charming Anecdote: OAP Coach Tours
- Roger Lewis vividly describes the charm and quirks of OAP coach tours in Britain.
- Despite physical challenges, these tours offer nostalgia, camaraderie, and brief escapes from old age.