The practice and procedure of the House of Lords 1714-1784

Abstract

This thesis is a study of the procedures for conducting business in the House of Lords between 1714 and 1784. The first chapter is a general introduction to the House of Lords, attention being given to the topography, membership, privileges and servants of the House. The next four chapters survey the Lords' power and methods of inquiry, the passing of legislation, and the judicial powers of the
Lords, both civil and criminal jurisdiction. Chapter VI studies the procedures for scheduling business in the House. Chapter VII examines the practices for summoning the attendance of peers at the House of Lords. Actual attendances at
important political events are analysed. Chapter VIII assesses the seating capacity of the House of Lords chamber, and traces the collapse of the official seating order due to the increased membership of the House. Chapter IX deals with the admission of strangers, and the problems caused by the absence
of a gallery. Chapter X describes the format of a day in the Upper Chamber of Parliament, and traces the trend to a later start of public business.
The next four chapters describe the manner of conducting business in the House of Lords: the method of making motions and the means of evasion; the rules and pattern of debate; the division procedure, including the use of proxies and the right of Protest; and the types and role of Committees in the House.
Chapter XV examines the role of the Lord Chancellor as Speaker of the House of Lords, and describes his ceremonious and formal duties in the House. Chapter XVI describes the proper methods of communication between the two Houses of Parliament and explains the causes of their rivalry and disagreements.

Date of Award	1987
Original language	English
Awarding Institution	Aberystwyth University
Supervisor	P. D. G. Thomas (Supervisor)