Background ¦ Your reaction

The Background:

The UK's hereditary peers are heading back to school.

In scenes reminiscent of the third form, the Lords are being asked to explain in 75 words why they should be one of the 92 peers remaining in the Second Chamber when sweeping reform gets under way.

Using far more than 75 words, the Lords have already dismissed the scheme as a farcical way to end the 700-year tradition of hereditary peers sitting and voting in the House of Lords.

The Government has asked Lords to sum up their political achievements in a handful of words to avoid weighty tomes from peers clamouring for a coveted seat.

It may be too many words for the odd Lord reclining happily at his country seat, but for the majority it could prove impossible to sum up a life in two paragraphs.

Sticking strictly to the word limit, you told us why you would be an ideal candidate for the Lords. Excellent performance in public life, strong political convictions, always get to work on time, nice to the neighbours, solid performer in the bar, tip the milkman at Christmas?

Background ¦ Your reaction

Your Reaction:

I think that the House of Lords do a good job. They are also not all fat old men. I think that the best people from every field should be made lords (or ladies) as role models to our youth e.g. Lord Puttnam the excellent film producer. Perhaps Richard Branson should be made a lord for his business skills. To justify their existence is degrading though.
Jim, England

Because as someone who has no idea of the issues going on in Parliament (or in my own Congress, for that matter), I'd be honest when someone asks "What the hell are you doing to Britain", in saying "I don't know!" How do you like that...an honest politician. Lord or not, its hard to find one...well, here I am! But only until I've lost a semblance of common sense. Anyone that goes into politics has none, anyway.
Jeremy Slavin, USA

Anyone wot speek propper like wot I do should git in there _ know wot I mean? 'sides, oo can count to 76?
Mark M. Newdick, USA/UK

I should be a Lord because I'll agree with everything Mr. Blair says and always vote whatever way he wants. I'm sure if all Lords did likewise that Tony Blair - and the rest of the government - would soon change their minds and become suddenly pro-House of Lords. Funny old world.
Stacey, England

It's absolutely disgusting that Lords are still about. Hoarding money, thinking that by birth they are higher than the average person. These Lords are weaker and more evil beings than the muggers on the streets (by far)
Richard Moore,

I would very much like to submit my candidacy but it would inevitably be vetoed by my Prime Minister, Jean Chrétien (Yes! like Conrad Black, I'm Canadian!).
L. Lalongé, Canada

The long standing system in Britain, no matter how sided, has lead their country through many good, even great years and allowed it to survive through the worst. I believe that representatives should not only conduct themselves with the utmost respect and dignity but be charitable with their time as well as their money. If you were to look at the American system, Congress is our House of Lords, Do you think George W. Bush would even be consider a contender in the Presidential race if his father wasn't a former President? I believe it's a "double-edged sword". It is human nature to want to be an active participant in your future but who has the initiative to do it. We love the idealistic nation lead by the people that prospers but it's just that...an ideal. Then reality sets in and you have nothing more than a country of lay-abouts who only complain about how great it could be that do not have the initiative to do something about it. In America, they do have the opportunity to do something but they do not have the grit to step up and make it better. Political or governmental changes should only be made with the best interest of the people and the nation at heart, not because one side wants to stack the deck. I say....If it's not broke, do not fix it!
Bonnie, USA

Cos my father was? That's the only reason at present.
Kate, UK

I believe I am the product of a liaison between the 8th Earl of Chipping Sudbury and a local Lady of the Night, making me the XiiiV Earl of Syphilis.
Gary Rae, UK

I'd make a wonderful Lord. All my life people have told me, "GOOD LORD, GREBNER!"
Philip Grebner, USA

Ever since I left school with a respectable clutch of exams people have been asking me for my advice about many different topics . Some of my friends jokingly call me "The Expert" because I am so full of answers. I have worked in many different fields and this has helped me to build up a wide knowledge base .And I am told I would look very fetching in the special Lords' clothing!
Mark Verth, UK

I want to see injustices rectified. I want to see that the farmer accused of murder was rightfully defending his property and family and thievery should not be condoned nor sympathised. I want convicted criminals to be made an example of how NOT to conduct your livelihood. I want to see smokers finance their own smoking related disorders through taxes they pay on the products that caused them their problems. I want equity and accountability.
Sheetal Patel, UK

There's no doubt that I should be given an important political role in modern Britain. After all, my great great great great great great great great great great great great grandfather groomed and fed Henry of Richmond's poodles during the battle of Bosworth.
Dave, Wales

I would make a good Lord because I would bring Britain into a new era. There would be reform, and the lowering of red tape. We would lead Europe and the world. Taxes will be low, wages high; inflation will be low and standards high. There will be a transparency of government. It will be just and true. (Thanks Tony, you can put the cue card down now)
Jason Irwin, Scotland

Whoever dreamed up this idea of "I want to remain a Peer of The Realm because" (in less than 75 words)? This is the most incredible insult to the dignity of the upper chamber of Parliament that I have heard of in YEARS.
But then again since the upper chamber is stuffed full of Opposition Supporters it should not come as any surprise that this government seeks to humiliate them.
John Voisey, UK

I would like to be considered because of my vast knowledge of English history. I saw Marry Poppins seven times as a kid.
Pete Bawden, USA

My ancestors were bloody tribal thugs and gangsters who terrorised, bullied, and bought the king, bishops, and anyone else into giving them a say in how the country is run. After many centuries of apathy you want us to go through it all again??? I thought once every four to five years for the Commons was tawdry enough. Oh, and I like the swanky title and turning up occasionally for a snooze.
Benjamin W, UK

Cos I'm young, gifted and I'd like the money, power and position and the really long holidays
Garry, England

I should be made a Lord so that I can put my secret plan into practice. I plan to crush British independence, reduce the country to a U.S. colony, ban cricket and soccer, force everyone to speak with a mid-western accent and play baseball. Uh, I didn't reinforce any paranoid fantasies, did I? Teeheehee.
Rath Andor, USA

Given that all a Peer has to do is smile I think Americans would make much better peers because we have much better teeth. Now, now don't get mad. You know we do. (just kidding)...
Krow, USA

How insulting to those Lords who HAVE contributed positively to our society! To ask someone to sum up their life's work in 75 words...And who is going to do the marking?
Julia Piff, UK

I should be a lord because I am already rich, fat, old, bumbling and useless and being a Lord gives me an excuse.
Ben MacPhee, UK

Perhaps we should return to the pre-Norman practice of electing our peers rather them being either hereditary or appointed life peers.
As for my own credentials? I'm motivated by ethics rather than politics - it's a shame that it's not the same for most of the members of either Houses of Parliament!
Alister McClure, UK

I believe that the right of the hereditary peers to sit in the Lords should not be abolished before the Reform of the Upper Chamber is completed. The hereditary peers are better then Blair's cronies. The House of Lords, with its limited powers, is the only restriction to the absolute powers of the House of Commons over Britain. That is why Blair wants to get rid of the present House of Lords and replace it by a House of Cronies. If he achieves his goal, there will be no further reform, and the party in power will have total control over the State.
Antonio, Brazil

How about choosing new Lords every year by lot? Anyone who got a special bonus ball on the National Lottery would automatically be made a peer. In fact, why not do the same for the House of Commons?
David Hugh-Jones, UK

The question should surely be. Who should be a lord? Now if I had to make a decision on this it would be a selection of the greatest minds this country has to offer. It should not be a politically orientated body of people or a particular class of people, but a collection of great opinionated thinkers. Placed together to plot and plan the future for this very intelligent country. It would stop the Government from making stupid mistakes and possibly even influence them to make better decisions.
Mat Ward, England

I should become a Lord because...I would like to claim ridiculous expenses, sleep all the time, mess around with lovely young ladies, get a red nose from drinking too much, live in a stupidly large stately home, not pay any money to charity, be pompous, go to extravagant and pointless parties, never do any proper work, frown upon the lower classes, get my picture in HELLO, have beautiful but spoilt children, oh and go on Fox hunts and not give a dam about how brutal and barbaric the sport, if I could call it that, is
Dominic James Tarquin Beaumont IX, UK

Leave the pompous Brits alone. It's been a tradition for 1000 years or so to have a House of Lords. Actually I don't know too much. But I think the House of Lords is the only interesting thing about British politics.
Louis Eisenstein, USA

Several years ago my family discovered that I am heir to a hereditary title that could make me a member of the House of Lords. Being in Japan it is a little troublesome to attend sessions, and I have yet to take up the title. I am from an ordinary family, although now I am a scientist and a university professor. If I take up my position in the House I will concentrate on the improvement of education for all.
Robert Ridge, Japan

I want to be a lord because I've reached the regulation weight.
Alex Clarke, England

Here! Here! Well said, that man! As you can see, I've been practising! My company is Planet III Associates Limited so we should all strive to join together but let me get there first. Not only that but I am nearing retirement age, which would make me eligible for elevation to a peerage so I could sit and doze with my peers (sic!). At least I would be a bit of new blood!
John Churchman, UK/Germany

I'm a member of the UK's Reserve Armed Forces. I know it's not a lot, but it's a damn sight more than the average Lord or MP. I've demonstrated a willingness to defend our democracy, with my own life if necessary - have Blair, Hague or Kennedy demonstrated this?
M.J., UK

I deserve to be a lord "Because my father was one
and his father was one
and his father was one
and his father was one
and his father was one
and his father was one
and his father was one
and his father was one
and his father was one
and his father was one
and his father was one
and his father was one
and his father was one
and his father lent money to William III"
GN, UK

My election speech is as follows: "My Lords, on being elected, I will legislate for: Trespassing on private property to be punishable by death. A maximum wage for servants. Hunting with hounds to be kept legal, in perpetuity. No limit to Estate visitors' entrance fees. Abolition of socialism. Chateau Latour to be available on the NHS. A right Royal boot up Blair's backside. These, I think you'll agree, are practical policies for a Better Britain. Choose as you please." Do I get me seat then, or wot?
Tony Knight, England

it is an inherent flaw in the present system (the House of Lords) that someone, who has had the most privileged upbringing, should by the virtue of his/her "noble" birth alone, allowed to be a part of a system which makes or breaks public policy. I, for one, believe that if I were to sit in the House of Lords, I would use my tenure to acquire the riches from around the world. Maybe, with the abundance of the natural charm that I have, I will probably woo a rich princess and thus be made for life. I would use my influence to ban soccer from Britain, forcing everyone to play Cricket and in the process ensuring my survival as a LORD.
Akdus Afzal, USA

I can't believe this is such a big issue. The Lords only has limited powers (correct me if I'm wrong, but I believe it can only delay a bill 3 times, not block it altogether), and it has no power whatsoever over financial bills. And much though I like and admire Tony Blair, it does no harm to have a few harmless old boys bring him down a peg or two now and again. Better that than his assorted cronies doing his bidding. So give me a dusty old wig, a walking frame and an expense account, and I'll be more than happy to make the odd sheep noise in our hallowed upper chamber!
Ed Bayley, USA

I wish to be a Lord. British reluctance about Europe fits with my belief that the United States should leave North America. As an American, I support a massive public works program to chisel America away from Canada and Mexico. As a Lord, I would invite a drifting America to set course to the British Isles. Finally, together again! Protected from those Mexicans and Germans we despise to feel better about ourselves.
Neil Aquino, USA

I have a computer but no pager. I would probably vote Labour if I were a British citizen but I am not so I can't right now, but I follow British politics as closely as I can, probably a good deal closer than some hereditary peers. I have many interests and like to keep up, I have an independent but open mind and a constructive approach to solving problems. With training I think I might make a pretty good cross-bench peer.
Christopher Hobe Morrison, Middletown, NY,USA

As a man with red hair, I feel it upon myself to stand for election to the house due to the fact that us gingers are greatly underrepresented
Andrew Venn, Staffordshire

I am French and what can I do to have:
- a nice free apartment in Chelsea
- a free Rolls Royce with chauffeur
- nice free dinner in the best restaurant
- my pictures in the Mirror
and find my name in the BBC Talking Point only one solution to be a republican candidate for the Lord.
Monjaux, France

I can trace my lineage back to the Homo Erectus. I went to a good school. I don't know much about politics, but I am a closet supporter of Oswald Moseley. I like to fire my shotgun. I know the difference between Veuve Clicquot Ponsardin and Moet & Chandon.
Steph, Belgium

I'd make MPs work 47 weeks of the year in their new home, Portcullis House, and not let them vote for their own selfish interests.
Richard W, UK

I think I should become a Lord because there is a lack of 'life' in the House of Lords. I would start up a Man City supporters branch, install TV's, get a stereo in there, and let ordinary people have a say on how the country's run.
David Scally, 16, UK

I'd be perfect for a seat in the House of Lords, because I'd vow to vote YES to the question "Should the House Of Lords be abolished?" Seriously, though, I believe there should be some way of assessing the suitability of peers to retain their voting powers - self-assessment in this form is comical.
Jeremy Fry, UK

Because it would mean I could come to London, stay there for a long stretch, drink warm beer and generally annoy stodgy tories at the prospect of a Yank in the House of Lords.
Richard Thomas, USA

I should be a lord because I know and would fight for the general public view surrounding the definition and circumstances of
1. Age of Homosexual consent
2. GM Crops
3. Banning the word NEW
4. Foreign policy (particularly Iraq and Kosovo).
In turn I promise I would turn up at least twice a week, stay in the house for at least an hour, and to fight for Joe Bloggs, not the government. I also promise not to abuse expenses and to declare my opinion more than 4 times a year.
Alex, UK

Not having to be elected is the only plus in being a LORD. In truth when we vote we don't do it a true democracy. We can't vote for "Joe Bloggs" down the street or because we have seen him/her on TV and think they are a good fellow. We are restricted in voting for the people thrown up (regurgitated) by the party machines. It is "nice" to have some people there that are not that ilk.
Tony Wood, Australia

Hereditary peers are a thing of the past and should be abolished straightaway. Lord Mancroft is probably right 'What do I include - my inside leg measurement?' What else can most write, when many of them are seen 'almost sleeping' in the House. Let's say goodbye to the 'hereditary' whatever.
Reazul Hasan, UK

Firstly the comment by David Grindle, USA. The last I want to see in Britain is a Republic. (Who is your President accountable to?!!!!) Secondly, thank God for Hereditary Peers. The current government is trying to abolish them, not because they want us to have a better system, but so the upper house can be full of Tony Blair's cronies and fat cat businessmen - in other words - a dictatorship. We know very little about the people we elect to the house of commons. God help us if we have an upper house the same. An Hereditary Peer who runs an Estate knows that it will only run well with the co-operation of people and businesses at all levels. I would much rather have the latter in the Lords than a fat cat businessman who has only reached the top by squashing people on his way up. And I don't care if this is more than 75 words!!!
F, Britain

I want to be a Lord because it is a job vital for this country. If we didn't have the Lords, we would have another set of elected politicians, and as if we need more of those. The Lords do a good job, leave them be!
Tony Little, UK

I am a Lord. But I have never been able to gain entrance to the Palace of Westminster. If I became a real Lord, I could be as drunk as one. Then I could think up the remaining words.
William Lord, UK

Firstly, I'd beat the peasants back in their places. If you're really going to "rule", the subjects need that warm fuzzy feeling that comes from a week in the stocks and a vigorous, public lashing.
Secondly, I'd get the snaggletoothed brutes some fluoride - it's worked well as a mind control agent in the States for years, and the Yanks teeth are inherently superior to ours.
Lastly, I'd use our iron-fisted rule over the UN to relive of the glory days of British Empiricism. (There was a time when the sun didn't set over the empire quite so early in the evening...if you catch my drift, Mr. Blair.)
Richard, Wales

I am particularly suited to the position as I do not belong to the school of envy. I want what is best for my country and this can best be served by a patriot. Love of country should be a prerequisite for the position. So much quality has been destroyed so easily in fashionable whims or for short term political gain. It needs someone who has their eye on the ball, not looking to the crowds on the kop or the press moguls in the lairs. Select a patriot, not a parrot.
Bob Gardiner, UK

I must agree with Malcolm from Scotland. I reckon he's got the perfect formula! Wish I'd thought of that.
Andy, UK

It's quite simple. I would like to become a Baroness so I could vote to abolish the lot of them! (you don't need 75 words to say that!) Let's have President Benn!!
Lydia Leates, England

I believe people with unattractive Christian names should be made lords. Let's say someone's name is Mr. Butch Err. Now, embarrassing to have your full name called out like this at public functions, wouldn't it? But a simple 'Lord Err of Worcester Park' is both elegant, graceful, and hides the folly of one's parents.
Tae-joon, South Korea

I would like to volunteer my services to the British people. In 1754, my family was transported to America as indentured servants. After years of oppression, we liberated ourselves from the Tyranny of Royalty in 1776. It's time to bring the Republic to Britain. Put me in the House of Lords and there will be a chicken in every pot, and Queen Elizabeth cooking it for you.
Dave Grindle, USA

I should be a lord because I want to sort out this country and make things right again. I want to do something that makes a difference and stop those whinging Commons folk from having things their own way. I would be a great Peer because I would actually abolish hereditary and life peerages and the House of Lords.
A Hairre, London, UK

Firstly, I couldn't do much worse than the current incumbents. As someone who has been homeless and now has a job working for the Police I've seen most levels of society and how they operate. I think therefore that I am more qualified than most to sit on judgement on the nations laws. I listen with reason, and don't condemn without due reason.
Helen Mewkous, UK

Why should I be a Lord? Several reasons. I am white, this seems to be of vital importance, I would like to be able to wake up at noon and maybe have a round of golf before wandering down to "The House". I would obviously require many weeks holidays a year and all my foreign trips paid by Joe Public. I might also require the odd afternoon cat-nap, but I could do that while someone is droning on and on about the homeless. I also would promise to say nothing controversial or of any consequence (I cannot promise to say nothing stupid). Do I get the job Tony?
Neil, UK

It makes me angry that people with little or no life experience think they have the right to decide for the average person, there is nothing average about peers, they have gone to a privileged school, they have been educated to the best of their ability, they have had wealth and riches beyond an average persons dreams, they are a different microcosm of society. It is like a cat telling a dog to bark. Do away with hereditary peers and give the real person with a real life a chance.
Jasmine Christie, England

I strongly believe in having a second chamber but with a better defined role and teeth, unlike the present emasculated arrangement. I consider that some members should be elected to the chamber but not on a party political basis. There should also be room for members to be appointed by consensus between the parties. A limited number of existing hereditary peers should remain in the House, chosen on the basis of their attendance, speaking and voting records over, say, the past ten years (or since accession if less), perhaps on a points basis. This would identify those who have made a real contribution
Tony Flook, England

I am neither easily swayed by transient political fashion (which can lead to precipitate, but ultimately counterproductive, change) nor a stickler for traditions (such as that of endorsing hereditary political powers). Moreover, as a non-UK national I could help the country overcome its blinkered insularity.
Peter, Netherlands

If unelected power over the masses is to exist, then at least I am honest enough to admit that I would prefer to be one of those wielding it.
Mick, UK

Hmm--my great-great-great grandfather once did something notable. That should be enough to ensure my lordship.
Ann, Ireland

Hereditary peers are an anachronism. Get rid of them all. Hereditary peers are an anachronism. Get rid of them all. Hereditary peers are an anachronism. Get rid of them all. Hereditary peers are an anachronism. Get rid of them all. Hereditary peers are an anachronism. Get rid of them all. Hereditary peers are an anachronism. Get rid of them all. Hereditary peers are an anachronism. Get rid of them all. That is seventy five words.
Edward, UK

Reasons for suitable elevation.
1. Ex-student socialist.
2. Friend of Tony Blair.
3. Ex-member of CND.
4. Friend of Tony Blair.
5. Got £1 million spare in pocket.
6. Friend of Tony Blair.
7. Have robotic tendencies.
8. Friend of Tony Blair.
9. Inclined to use the word NEW in every sentence.
10. New friend of Tony Blair.
Malcolm McCandless, Scotland

I have my own view on everything and would vote as such. I will not be swayed by every whim of the gutter press portrayed as national will and I would never use spin-doctors to dress up policies. If the public would not accept a proposal on its merits then it should not be presented.
Ron Kane, UK

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