November 9, 2001	Friday	Shaba’an 22, 1422

LONDON, Nov 8: Britain’s Labour government unveiled plans on Wednesday to eject the last heraeditary aristocrats from the House of Lords, ending their 700-year grip on the venerable second chamber of parliament.

But its proposals to replace peers with a largely appointed chamber — with just one-fifth of members chosen by election — drew howls of derision from critics who had demanded a more sweeping overhaul of the bastion of British nobility.

Government business manager Robin Cook told the elected House of Commons the proposals envisaged a 600-strong second chamber, made up of 120 elected members and another 120 nominated by an independent appointments commission.

Remaining members would be picked by political parties, with appointments reflecting the distribution of votes in parliamentary elections.

The proposals call for fixed term appointments — membership is currently for life — and would abolish the right of veto over certain legislation.

“(This) will give Britain a modern second chamber. One which will be able to complement the Commons, but will be unable to compete for power with it,” Cook said.

BACK TO THE FUTURE: But the proposals drew condemnation both from critics impatient for greater change and supporters of the status quo.—Reuters