Alexandra Runswick (London, Unlock Democracy): When the House of Commons voted in March for a fully elected second chamber it was heralded as a historic moment for democratic reform in the UK. But where are we now on Lords reform? Jack Straw, who will take responsibility for it as the new head of the Ministry of Justice and Lord Chancellor, gave evidence to the Commons Select Committee on 19th June. He told them he was "absolutely determined" to proceed with reform but thought it was unlikely to happen in this Parliament. A cross-party group of MPs is meeting to discuss a way forward but Jack was hazy about the exact process. There may be a draft Bill, or sections of a Bill or another white paper. One thing was clear; proposals would be brought forward for both an 80% elected and a fully elected second chamber. The relevant minister (him?) will make a statement to Parliament before it goes into recess on the 26th July.
So was the optimism of those of us who cheered the vote misplaced? Not necessarily. This is an issue where Gordon Brown can insist on progress and demonstrate that the era of patronage is over. Consensus is important, particularly in constitutional reform, but as Jack Straw said, unanimity is not required. It's time for action not words.
