As the UK government’s House of Lords (Hereditary Peers) Bill threatens to remove hereditary peers from Parliament, one peer is reflecting on his own legacy and the future of this ancient institution. With centuries of history comes a steep price: many of these titles are on the line.
For centuries, hereditary peers have held a unique place in the British Parliament. With their right to make and debate laws, they are an integral part of the House of Lords. However, with over 500 years of history comes a steep price: many of these titles are on the line.
The Earl of Devon‘s family has been synonymous with power for nearly 900 years. The current Earl, Charlie Courtenay, is the 19th or 38th to hold the title, depending on how you count it. As one of the remaining 87 hereditary peers, he will be leaving Parliament this year if the government’s House of Lords (Hereditary Peers) Bill passes.
The title of Earl of Devon is an hereditary peerage in the United Kingdom.
It was first created in 1102 for Baldwin FitzGilbert, who was granted lands in Devon by 'William the Conqueror'.
The title has been held by several prominent families throughout history, including the Courtenay and Seymour families.
Today, the Earl of Devon is a subsidiary title of the Duke of Somerset, and is currently held by Hugh Courtenay, 21st Earl of Devon.
The earldom has played a significant role in English politics and history, with many notable Earls contributing to the country's development.
Growing up with a privileged background can be awkward and embarrassing, especially when living in a castle. ‘I felt like an outsider,’ Charlie Courtenay recalls feeling, but his time spent abroad helped him find confidence in discussing his family’s history. His distant ancestor, Baldwin de Redvers, was given the title in 1142 for backing Empress Matilda‘s claim to the throne.
Despite their privileged upbringing, Charlie Courtenay is determined to make a difference. He sees himself as an ‘unashamed’ proponent of hereditary peers, arguing that they offer a long-term, multi-generational view and are less likely to be swayed by short-term political gains.
Hereditary peers are individuals who hold their titles and seats in the House of Lords by birthright.
In the UK, hereditary peerage dates back to the 12th century.
Historically, these titles were granted to nobles for military service or loyal support to monarchs.
Today, around 92 hereditary peers remain in the House of Lords, with some holding significant influence.
Notably, the House of Lords Act 1999 removed the automatic right of hereditary peers to sit and vote in the House of Lords.
However, his efforts may be in vain. The government’s bill aims to remove the majority of hereditary peers from Parliament, leaving Charlie Courtenay and others with uncertain futures. His children will not have the opportunity to sit in the Lords based solely on their title, a fact he is resigned to.
Lord Thurso, a Liberal Democrat peer, shares Charlie’s passion for reform. He believes that hereditary peers are nothing more than ‘a sticking plaster’ over a system that needs significant change. ‘The House of Lords lacks legitimacy and true influence can only be achieved through representation,’ he argues.
For him, the current system is flawed. The House of Lords debates and scrutinizes government plans well, but ultimately, it does not achieve anything meaningful. Lord Thurso wants to see changes such as a 20-year term limit for new peers and restrictions on the size of the house.
The House of Lords is the upper chamber of the UK Parliament, composed of appointed members who hold their seats for life.
Reform efforts aim to increase accountability and representation.
Key proposals include introducing elected members, reducing numbers, and enhancing powers of the Commons.
However, implementing reform faces challenges, including maintaining the chamber's expertise and ensuring continuity.
Historical attempts at reform date back to 1911, with significant changes made in 1999, but ongoing debates continue.
Lord Hacking, one of only four Labour hereditary peers, holds a unique perspective on this issue. He was given the title in 1971 but never expected to stay so long. Despite his initial enthusiasm for politics, he regrets not pursuing an MP career earlier.
While backing his party’s position on hereditary peers, Lord Hacking acknowledges that it may be time to move on. ‘There will be a compromise and some of the best hereditary peers will be invited to receive a life peerage,’ he believes.
