Can Labour introduce an elected House of Lords?

A Senate-style elected upper house could bring new political problems, says Sean O’Grady

Lords reform is not one of Labour’s ‘five missions’ but will be in its manifesto, says Keir Starmer (PA)

Keir Starmer is reportedly ready to stuff the House of Lords with sufficient nominees to ensure a future Labour government would be able to carry out its mandate and legislate as required. The Labour leader has also promised that radical reform of the upper house will be in the party manifesto at the next election.

He proposes to replace the current hybrid system of appointed and hereditary peers with a fully elected version, with representation from the nations and regions of the UK. Starmer is also unhappy with the current system of nominations for life peerages, and in particular with Boris Johnson’s controversial resignation honours nominations and, in prospect, a similarly problematic selection from Liz Truss.

What’s the balance of power in the Lords now?