Role of the House of Lords in scrutinising legislation

Early day motion 2709, tabled 2 February 2026 by Andrew George (Liberal Democrat). Signed by 61 members.

That this House believes that the use of filibuster tactics in the House of Lords to frustrate the majority will of the democratically elected House of Commons is unacceptable, including where the elected Commons has given its majority support to a Private Members’ Bill; further believes that the case for the outright abolition of the House of Lords and its replacement would be strengthened if such tactics were used; acknowledges that, although the House of Lords often provides a helpful role through scrutinising and suggesting constructive revisions to bills, it should not have the power to block them, nor to use its procedures to the same effect; and calls on the Government to take legislative steps to ensure that Private Members' Bills backed by a majority in the elected House can never be defeated by undemocratic means in the House of Lords.

Signatures by party: Liberal Democrat 38, Labour 13, Green 4, Plaid Cymru 4, Labour/Co-operative 1, Scottish National Party 1.