This House of Lords Library briefing covers the maiden and valedictory speeches made during the course of the first two sessions of the current parliament. The first and last speeches made by a Member of the House of Lords are significant occasions and, by tradition, are marked with respect by the House.
House of Lords: Maiden and valedictory speeches, 2019-2022 (501 KB , PDF)
The first speech made by a member of the House of Lords is known as a maiden speech. The second section of this Library briefing includes the full text of a selection of recent maiden speeches, made by a cross-section of members from different parties and affiliations, to illustrate the range of styles and subjects covered by new members in their first contribution to the proceedings of the House of Lords. A list of all members’ maiden speeches made in the House of Lords during the first two sessions of the current parliament can be found in the appendices.
The House of Lords Reform Act 2014 enabled members to retire from the House of Lords. It was agreed that members should be given the opportunity to make a valedictory speech to mark their retirement. During the first two sessions of this parliament six members chose to take up this opportunity. The third section of this briefing includes the full text of some of these speeches.
House of Lords: Maiden and valedictory speeches, 2019-2022 (501 KB , PDF)
Under the provisions of the House of Lords Act 1999, 92 ‘excepted’ hereditary peers can sit in the House of Lords. The House of Lords (Hereditary Peers) Bill would remove this exemption and also abolish the jurisdiction of the House of Lords in hereditary peerage claims.
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.
Ministers are needed in the House of Lords to take legislation through the House and answer for the government during questions and debates. Some cabinet ministers are appointed from the Lords. For example, the leader of the House of Lords is always a member of the Lords. This briefing looks at the role of ministers in the House of Lords and how they are scrutinised.
