House of Lords: Peerages

Baroness Deech Excerpts

Monday 19th July 2010 Lords Chamber

[Lord Taylor of Holbeach]

We would like to think that nominations, at least from this side of the House, are already made on merit.

[Baroness Deech]

My Lords, does the Minister agree that the problem highlighted by the noble Baroness, Lady Cox, is shared by all professions which are extremely worthy but not very well paid—for example, school teaching; I doubt whether there are many schoolteachers here—and that that problem will be exacerbated given the sitting hours and the cut in expenses, which will make it impossible for members of the teaching or nursing professions to attend, especially if they live outside London?

[Lord Taylor of Holbeach]

Maintaining the diversity of the House is very important; all the contributions that have been made have made that quite clear. I am sure that it is the aim and wish of all noble Lords for that to be maintained. It is important to bear in mind that, while Members of this House have direct experience, they also have indirect experience. When we have debates on which there is little or no experience in this House—let us say, teenage unemployment, which is a major issue—many noble Lords have indirect experience of it and are able to contribute to such debates with skill. That is a factor that we need to bear in mind. Direct experience is only one way in which people can contribute to this House.