In this article, we’ll uncover the different ways one can submit an application for a peerage, an exploration of the rich history of the House of Lords and how Awards Intelligence can help you realise your dream of becoming a member.
The role of a peer
Being named a peer in the House of Lords comes with great responsibility. As a peer, you will be tasked with scrutinising legislation, managing public policy and even the creation or amendment of bills.
There is no formal time commitment specified, and actively engaging in political debates isn’t mandatory however, a minimum of one day per week in attendance is an expectation.
How are members appointed to the House of Lords?
As of February 2025, there are 831 registered peers belonging to the House of Lords.
There are a range of reasons someone can be chosen for the House of Lords. These include dissolution honours, resignation honours and ‘working peers’, as well as archbishops, bishops and speakers. Below we detail a brief explanation of each.
Dissolution Honours
The process of nominating someone for a Dissolution Honour takes place at the end of a Parliament, at which point peerages can be given to any MPs leaving the House of Commons. They can be nominated from any of the political parties.
Resignation Honours
Resignation Honours allows resigning Prime Ministers to recommend peerages for politicians they have worked alongside, political advisors and others who have supported them throughout their Parliament.
‘Working Peers’
Dubbed ‘working peers’ by the media, non-party political members are appointed to the cross benches to enhance the strength of the House of Lords, uplifting the knowledge and expertise from the three main political parties with an outsider’s perspective.
Archbishops and bishops
Collectively referred to as the ‘Lords Spiritual’, archbishops and bishops are appointed through level of seniority.
Since the mid-19th Century, the number of bishops that sit in the House of Lords has been limited to 26. These include the Archbishop of York, the Archbishop of Canterbury, the Bishops of Winchester, London and Durham, alongside 21 other bishops.
Speakers
Peerages have been historically awarded to former Speakers from the House of Commons. Given the title of Lord Speaker, this role involves overseeing the daily business being conducted in the House of Lords.
Lord McFall of Alcluith is the current Lord Speaker, elected by the House of Lords in 2021.
Historical changes
Dating back to the 11th Century, the House of Lords is one of the oldest political institutions in the world; its heritage is almost legendary.
The selection process for the House of Lords looks a little different to how it has been practised historically. Two events have changed how members are appointed to the House of Lords, including the 1999 House of Lords Act, which limited hereditary peerages; and the introduction of the House of Lords Appointments Commission.
House of Lords Appointments Commission
The introduction of the House of Lords Appointments Commission came into effect in May 2000, which serves to recommend individuals for appointment as non-party-political life peers.
This body is independent of the House of Lords, ensuring that the highest standards of appointment are maintained. Of course, each appointment is rigorously scrutinised, pending the approval of the Prime Minister and then formalised by the King before the title is awarded.
How to become a member of the House of Lords
Awards Intelligence’s dedicated team of specialists is here to guide you throughout the process of becoming a member of the House of Lords.
From support with a bespoke CV to preparing you for the day of the interview and everything that will entail, we are by your side every step of the way. A one-to-one consultant will be provided, who will conduct thorough research for your application and beyond, including drafting letters of support from your network.
With a two-in-three success rate and 97% client satisfaction, our services give you the highest chance possible of becoming a member of the House of Lords.
Becoming a peer with Awards Intelligence
Competition is rigorous to become a peer in the House of Lords. With a very large volume of applicants for limited spaces, ensure that you have the best possibility of achieving this aspiration with Awards Intelligence.
Get in touch with us to book a free consultation with one of our experts and get started on your journey today.