Research
Browse by topic, from Brexit and the EU to world affairs. We produce in-depth analysis on legislation, debates and topical issues.
Research for Lords business
Authoritative research covering all major bills and debates
Our work
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Collections
Access our print and online collections, including books, journals and newspapers. Available with a parliamentary login.
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Data dashboards
Explore interactive data visualisations about the House of Lords. Includes data on current membership and regional representation.
200 Years of the House of Lords Library
The Library marks its 200th anniversary in 2026. Browse the associated Royal Gallery display, view our celebratory video and read more about our history.
Latest research
Read the most recent research on legislation, debates and topical issues
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House of Lords Retirement and Participation Committee: Report and proposals
The House of Lords Retirement and Participation Committee was tasked with looking at options for introducing a retirement age and a participation requirement for members of the House of Lords, following commitments in Labour’s general election manifesto. The committee proposed a maximum retirement age of 80 be phased in over five years from July 2029. It also said members should be required to attend at least 20% of sitting days averaged over two parliamentary sessions.
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Private members’ bills in the House of Lords
Members of the House of Lords who are not ministers can introduce private members’ bills. With limited time available, they rarely become law without government, and usually cross-party, support. This briefing provides a profile of private members’ bills in the Lords including examples of the types of private members’ bills introduced and commentary on the reasons why a member might table a private member’s bill.
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UK fiscal outlook: September 2026
The UK fiscal outlook is expected to remain challenging as rising borrowing costs could reduce government headroom against its fiscal rules. Spending remains above pre-pandemic levels and the tax take is forecast to reach a historic high within five years. The Burnham government said it would honour Labour manifesto commitments on tax but has promised reform in several areas—such as adult social care—that could add to spending pressures.
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