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Britain is ejecting hereditary nobles from Parliament after 700 years

Britain is ejecting hereditary nobles from Parliament after 700 years

Summary

Britain is set to end a long-standing tradition by removing hereditary nobles from the House of Lords. This change comes after Parliament passed legislation to oust these members who held positions through inherited titles. This move aims to make the House of Lords more democratic and based on merit.

Key Facts

  • The British Parliament voted to remove hereditary aristocrats from the House of Lords.
  • The House of Lords has about 800 members, making it the second-largest legislative body in the world.
  • Hereditary peers inherited their seats alongside their noble titles.
  • Life peers, appointed by the government, now form the majority of the chamber.
  • This reform is part of efforts to make the House of Lords more democratic.
  • The change will become official once King Charles III gives royal assent.
  • The current Labour government wants a more representative second chamber eventually.
  • Historically, the House of Lords included mostly noblemen and some bishops.

Source Information