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General Discussion & Feedback => Just Chat! => Topic started by: MDriver1981 on 15/05/2009 04:08:50

Title: Lord Thomas Galbraith
Post by: MDriver1981 on 15/05/2009 04:08:50

I was reading about Lord Galbraith, who, as most probably do not know, is the leader of the Conservative Party in the House of Lords.  The House of Lords is one of two Houses of the Parliament of the United Kingdom and Northern Ireland.  Somewhat recently he talked about whether or not the reforms of the House has been for the better.   I seem to know very little about the House of Lords and whether or not it operates the same as it did a century or two ago.  Are most people in the House of Lords appointed or elected?

Title: Lord Thomas Galbraith
Post by: graham.d on 15/05/2009 15:52:09

They are appointed though it is mostly by patronage of the political party in government now rather than by inheritance of a title as it once was.

It is still in need of considerable reform, however. Although it may seem an undemocratic institution at first sight, it definitely has value in having people with expertise in specific disciplines. It can delay (send back to the first house) and amend bills for any number of reasons. In recent times it has acted as a bastion of common sense against a tide of ill-though out legislation.

Title: Lord Thomas Galbraith
Post by: LeeE on 15/05/2009 17:30:26

It seems to me that in general, the members of the House of Lords are more independently minded than the party sheep who occupy the House of Commons.  It is because of this that I think that the House of Lords performs a vital function in curtailing the excesses of the House of Commons, who clearly seem to see themselves as rulers and not servants.

Title: Lord Thomas Galbraith
Post by: Don_1 on 15/05/2009 18:10:28

Bring back Guy Fawkes, we need you!!!

Title: Lord Thomas Galbraith
Post by: MDriver1981 on 15/05/2009 19:37:22

What title has more pull in England, "Lord" or "Doctor"?

Title: Lord Thomas Galbraith
Post by: graham.d on 15/05/2009 21:10:20

Probably Lord because of its rarity value

Title: Lord Thomas Galbraith
Post by: Chemistry4me on 16/05/2009 01:46:19

Doctors are everywhere!

Title: Lord Thomas Galbraith
Post by: JimBob on 16/05/2009 03:06:20

Quote from: Chemistry4me on 16/05/2009 01:46:19

Doctors are everywhere!

Sayeth the very well educated southern hemisphereian.

Title: Lord Thomas Galbraith
Post by: Chemistry4me on 16/05/2009 04:02:37

I am that I am.