What is a Lord?
The title of ‘Lord’ or ‘Baroness’ (the female equivalent) is given to a member of the House of Lords upon receipt of a peerage.
What is the House of Lords?
The House of Lords is an historic UK institution that holds the House of Commons to account, debates and votes on legislation, and presses the government for action on their policies. Ultimately, the House of Lords is a forum for independent expertise, reflecting complex make up of British society and increasingly ensuring that a wide range of voices are heard during the legislative process. Members of the House of Lords are called ‘peers’. You can apply for membership to the House of Lords independently as a non-political crossbencher, or in affiliation to one of the three main parties. A peerage can also be hereditary.
Hereditary Peerage
The hereditary peerage is the only category of peer that is associated with the British aristocracy, as it has been passed down through generations upon generations. However, ‘the House of Lords Reform Act’ of 1999 meant that only 92 hereditary peers were allowed to remain members.
Political Peerage
Political parties can create peers, although this is rigorously reviewed by the government and has to be formally approved by the King, ensuring fairness.
Political parties can make ‘top-up’ appointments when they wish to increase the size of their share in the House of Lords. This is particularly beneficial when the party is in government and can therefore gather more support for their policies and legislation.
Non-political appointments
Lords and Baronesses are appointed due to their expertise in a particular field, their achievements or their contributions to the UK. This appointment process ensures a diverse range of expertise is employed, including knowledge of the arts, healthcare, law, education, science, technology, environmental issues, finance and business.
How can one achieve this title?
The prestige of a peerage allows an individual to be a valued agent in democracy and the political development of the UK.
If you are interested in discussing how we might support an application, Contact us today for more information.
Titles within the Honours system
The title of Sir or Dame applies to an individual who has been bestowed with a Knighthood or Damehood above the rank of CBE, OBE or MBE. The granting of a Royal Honour is earned through one’s achievements and exceptional services to the country and awarded by His Majesty the King, via the Honours Committee.
How can you achieve an honour?
Although you cannot nominate yourself for a Knighthood or Damehood, you can be nominated by anyone who wishes to celebrate your achievements – be they a family member, business associate or friend. Our expert team is on hand to support you with making a nomination: (Contact us here for an honest eligibility assessment)
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Get in touch with us today to find out more about the application process for either the House of Lords or to nominate someone for a Knighthood, check your eligibility and learn more about how we can help you.