Speed Up Lords Reforms, Says Parliamentary Chair

The MP heading up the public administration select committee has called for a speedier reform of the rules imposed on peers, against the backdrop of alleged 'sleaze' in the Upper Chamber.

Dr Tony Wright said changes were need "within months, not years", in order to avoid diminished public faith in the political process.

Mr Wrights calls came after it was revealed four Labour lords had been approached as part of an undercover newspaper report into paid consultancy work by members.

In the Sunday Times article, a journalist - posing as a businessman - approached four peers with cash sums up to the value of £120,000, offered in return for a change in laws.

The four Uppers Chamber members named in the report - Lords Truscott, Moonie, Snape and Taylor of Blackburn - have all denied any wrongdoing.

Lords Truscott and Moonie are both former cabinet ministers.

Mr Wright today suggested there needed to be an "agreed framework" governing the relationship between lobbyists, peers and MPs.

"Unless the public can see who is lobbying whom about what, this kind of story will influence people's perceptions of lobbyists and politicians across the board and for the worse," Mr Wright said.

Lords Leader Baroness Royall supported Mr Wright's ascertains, saying tougher sanctions were needed for peers.

According to Lady Royall, a 'rigorous' investigation into claims has already been launched.

Yesterday, while addressing the Lords Chamber, Lord Taylor of Blackburn apologised unreservedly if anything he had done had brought the House into disrepute. He added that he believed he had stuck by the rules.

Lord Snape also refuted any allegations against him, while speaking in the House yesterday.

(PR/JM)