Tag Archives: House of Lords
The House of Lords with 792 members is in urgent need of reform
It has always been a mystery to me how Britain can claim to be a modern, twentieth-century democracy and have its parliament’s second chamber chosen by prime ministerial patronage. The only other country with an appointed second chamber is Canada, … Continue reading
Filed under Labour Party
European Movement in London
Last week I spoke to the London Branch of the European Movement about my work as a London MEP. Many thanks to Petros Fassoulas pictured standing. Petros is a passionate advocate of the European cause. I am grateful to him … Continue reading
Filed under Labour Party
Andrew McIntosh
It is with some trepidation that I write about Andrew McIntosh, Labour peer and member of the Greater London Council, who died at the end of August. He achieved much during his time in public life and will, I believe, … Continue reading
Filed under Labour Party
Lib-Dems caught Short
This fascinating little story on Michael Crick’s blog a few days ago seems to have gone virtually unnoticed. It appears that the Liberal Democrats are trying to get money meant for parties in opposition even though they are now part … Continue reading
Filed under Labour Party
Please get blogging!
I was very pleased to receive the following from my old friend Mee Ling Ng, one of the founders of Chinese for Labour. Mee Ling has written this to Chinese for Labour members: “The Government intends to reduce the number … Continue reading
Filed under Labour Party
Reform of the House of Lords?
Following yesterday’s pomp and circumstance, what could be more apt than considering the promised reform of that most august institution, host to the state opening of parliament, the House of Lords itself? (By the way, did you know peers have … Continue reading
Filed under Labour Party
On the Road to Fair Votes
Last year at Labour Party Conference, when Gordon Brown promised a referendum on changing the voting system, specifically holding a referendum on the Alternative Vote system (AV), I was absolutely delighted. Today the Guardian provided this very helpful demonstration of how AV … Continue reading
Filed under Labour Party
The Tories cannot overcome their problems with Europe
You will remember that on Friday I posted a report on the Tripartite Lords, Commons and European Parliament meeting held the day before. I deliberately didn’t mention any of the names of those present, but nevertheless tried to give a … Continue reading
Filed under Labour Party
