Is it time to ditch the Lords Spiritual?
Now that is back on the agenda should parliament consider removing the of the Church of England who are entitled to sit in the House of Lords as "Lords Spiritual"? No other church denomination is granted this privilege. Supporters point out, quite rightly, that this is because the Church of England has a unique place within the British constitution -- and leading figures from other faith groups are often invited to join the upper house as life peers. This is indeed true. But it is surely possible to remove most or all the bishops from the Lords without disestablishing the Church of England. Has that time now come?
If complete removal is a step to far, why not a reduction of the number? The current 26 Lords Spiritual comprise the Archbishops of Canterbury and York, the Bishops of London, Durham and Winchester (all of whom take their places ex officio), and the 21 most senior diocesan bishops (determined by length of diocesan service). Lord Wakeham's Royal Commission report recommended a reduction to 16 Lords Spiritual. But why not retain only the five ex officio bishops, or even limit the number to the two archbishops (who would then represent the northern and southern provinces of the Church of England)?
How would you reform the House of Lords in respect of the Lords Spiritual -- if at all?
Comments
I'm for an ENTIRELY elected house of lords. That means the following would be made redundant:
All bishops.
All life peers.
All hereditary peers.
The only people permitted to sit there would be those elected by the public. End of story. It's called democracy. Law makers should be elected. ONLY elected reps should be able to pass laws.
I would also abandone the term "Lords" and replace it with "Senate". Those who sit in the senate would be called Senators rather than Lords. Lords is a hang over of a class system that should be dismantled.
I would also remove the title "Sir" or "Dame", no one would be given any honours that give them titles. I would keep the "lettered" honours system, so that people can be given honours but I would remove any stratification of honours. So no more MBE, OBE, CBE etc. One honour for all those considered worthy of a state honour: Order of Britain (OB)
What is that a photo of, a legislative chamber or the inside of a cathedral? James Hillman, what do you think this is, America or something? You will have a priveleged class of people who are legally recognized as your betters. You will have an official church which will tell you what you may and may not do if you want to go to heaven to avoid eternity in hell and it will be guaranteed a hand in making the laws so that you don't stray. And you will have a Royal family to set an example to you of how to live your life you lowly commoner dog you. And you will pay for all of it with your taxes because it is for your own good. That's what it means to be British. :-)
In any old house, there is a certain amount of maintenance/renovation required. Those who live in cosy modern houses may gloat, but sooner or later they'll need a toolkit.
This is the case here too.
The Lords Spiritual and the CoE's position in Britain are anachronisitic - and increasingly less representative.
They should be removed.
BTW.
I am studiously not biting on your playful reprise of an old theme Mark! :)
Great website!
Great website!