when it comes to fulfilling their respective functions, the house of lords > house of commons

Question 1

Expertise and Quality of Scrutiny

Answer 1

In 2022–23, over 50% of Lords amendments to legislation were accepted by the government or the Commons.

Lord walton BMA

Baroness Lawerence— mpther of stephen lawerence– communiity work

Question 2

Less Partisan, More Independent

Answer 2

2019 conservative party withdrew whips from 21 MPs who had not supported govts decision on eu bill

vs 25% of HOL crossbenchers

Question 3

Revision and Legislative Improvement

Answer 3

1. The Welfare Reform Bill in 2012 was significantly revised after Lords pressure.

2.Brexit Legislation – EU (Withdrawal) Act 2018
What happened: The Lords introduced key amendments on issues such as Parliamentary sovereignty, environmental protections, and the role of the devolved governments.

Result: Some amendments were rejected, but others influenced final negotiations and secured clarifications and future commitments.

Question 4

Democratic Legitimacy and Sovereignty

Answer 4

1. MPs represent 650 constituencies and are accountable to the public through general elections. (limited by electoral turnout)
2. HOL unelected house and cash for honours scandal :Labour Party under Tony Blair — had offered peerages (seats in the House of Lords) in return for secret loans or donation

Question 5

Control of Legislation and Budget

Answer 5

The Lords cannot amend or delay money bills due to the 1911 and 1949 Parliament Acts—this gives the Commons primary lawmaking power.

Question 6

Government Accountability Mechanisms

Answer 6

1. In 2022, backbench MPs played a role in ousting Boris Johnson.
2. Select Committees, such as the Public Accounts Committee, hold ministers and civil servants accountable. (amber rudd 2018)