About us
The House of Lords is the second Chamber of the UK Parliament. It works with the House of Commons to:
House of Lords
make laws
scrutinise the actions of the Government, and
provide a forum of independent expertise.
The Lords is also the highest court of appeal in the land.
The House of Lords Chamber spends about 60% of its time on legislation; the other 40% is spent on scrutiny - questioning the Government and debating issues and policy. Committee work takes place outside the Chamber.
Find out what's on, browse the latest committee reports and read news, highlights and more from the House of Lords.
Hansard Society
The Hansard Society is the UK's leading political research and education charity operating across the political spectrum to strengthen the democratic process and improve the relationship between the public, elected representatives and political institutions.
The Hansard Society works to promote effective parliamentary democracy, by carrying out an intensive programme of work aimed at strengthening the political system and enhancing engagement in civic and political life. The combination of a solid reputation for high quality research is matched by our strictly independent non-partisan status, which affords us support across the political spectrum.
Find out more about the Hansard Society
Lord Speaker
The Rt Hon. Baroness Hayman is the first elected Lord Speaker of the House of Lords. She has been in post since 4 July 2006. Aside from her duties in Parliament, she also acts as an apolitical ambassador for the House of Lords, working to engage the public with the work of the Lords and the political process.
The Raw Deal or Truth Told? Young people in the media competition is being paid for out of the Woolsack Fund, the Lord Speaker's personal charitable fund, set up to support initiatives that promote understanding of Parliament's work and role.
Find out more about the Lord Speaker
Parliament's Education Service
Parliament's Education Service works with schools and Members of both Houses of Parliament to support young people in developing their understanding of Parliament and democracy.
Parliament's Education Service aims to:
inform young people about the role, work and history of Parliament through educational visits, tours, publications and outreach
engage young people to understand the relevance of Parliament and democracy today through active learning
empower young people to get involved by equipping them with the knowledge and skills to take part.