Lords Reform: Blair truly out of touch

12.00.00am UTC (GMT +0000) Mon 3rd Feb 2003

West Midlands Euro-MP Liz Lynne is calling on Westminster MPs to vote for an elected second chamber in the vote on Lords Reform this evening.

Liz said:

"Tony Blair's vision of a chamber consisting entirely of the great and the good appointed by a dark and shadowy quango, is a throwback to the 19th century, not a model for the 21st."

"I would prefer to see an entirely elected second chamber, although one with an appointed minority would be workable, as it is in other EU countries. I hope the Westminster MPs can come up with a democratic and workable compromise and that Blair doesn't subsequently kick reform into the long grass in a fit of pique.

"With Lords reform, Iraq and the introduction of top up fees, many Labour supporters must be wondering why they ever gave Tony Blair their votes. They should know they will always be able to find a new home with Charles Kennedy and the Liberal Democrats."