House of Lords Library

Our work

Research

Browse by topic, from Brexit and the EU to world affairs. We produce in-depth analysis on legislation, debates and topical issues.
Collections

Access our print and online collections, including books, journals and newspapers. Available with a parliamentary login.
Data dashboards

Explore interactive data visualisations about the House of Lords. Includes data on current membership and regional representation.

Latest research

Read the most recent research on legislation, debates and topical issues

Consumer Products (Control of Biocides) Bill [HL]: HL Bill 32 of 2024–25

The Consumer Products (Control of Biocides) Bill [HL] is a private member’s bill sponsored by Baroness Bennett of Manor Castle (Green Party). It would restrict the use of substances with antimicrobial properties, known as biocides, in cosmetic, personal care and other treated products, for example clothing and period products, subject to certain exemptions. The House of Lords is scheduled to debate the bill at second reading on 17 January 2025.
- Economy
- Environment
House of Lords Appointments Commission: Role and powers

The House of Lords Appointments Commission (HOLAC) vets nominations to the House and recommends non-party political members. While its advice is usually followed, it is not a statutory body and the prime minister can choose to disregard its advice. This briefing provides an overview of the role and powers of the commission and summarises recent debates concerning its reform.
- House of Lords
Biodiversity loss and climate change: Interdependent global challenges

Nature and climate change are considered to be inextricably linked. Climate change is one of the drivers of biodiversity loss, along with factors including unsustainable food production and the overuse of natural resources. Nature is considered a key tool in combating rising global temperatures, for example forests and peatlands can play an important role in absorbing carbon emissions. This briefing summarises biodiversity loss, nature-based solutions to climate change and UK climate and nature policy.