House of Lords Reform Bill

Debate between Angela Eagle and David Miliband

Tuesday 10th July 2012 Commons Chamber

[Ms Eagle]

That was part 1 of a reform; it was an interim arrangement. I think that once we get to a stage where elections are being introduced and our institutions are being changed for good, a referendum is appropriate.

[David Miliband (South Shields) (Lab)]

Is not the significant difference that in our 1997 election manifesto there was a clear and discrete commitment to the removal of hereditary peers, and that in our 2010 manifesto, there was equally a clear commitment to hold a referendum? Does that not show the consistency of my hon. Friend’s position?

[Ms Eagle]

My right hon. Friend is exactly right.