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20/07/2009
Lord Sugar Takes Up New Job
Business mogul Sir Alan Sugar took his seat in the House of Lords this afternoon, amid talks of a mechanism that would allow life peers to renounce their titles.
Lord Sugar, as he will be known, was appointed to the Upper Chamber by Prime Minister Gordon Brown.
The BBC Apprentice star will operate as an 'enterprise tzar' for the Government.
The former Amstrad owner will not join the Cabinet and but is expected to take the Government whip.
It is said to be a purely advisory role, but has prompted Lord Sugar to stand down from several directorships to avoid any conflicts of interest.
There were originally fears that the 62-year-old's appointment could compromise the BBC's impartiality, with speculation that the next series of the Apprentice could run during canvassing for the 2010 general election.
First Secretary of State Lord Mandelson sparked a debate over the renouncing of life peerages at the weekend.
Currently only hereditary peers can disclaim their titles, which would allow them to stand as MPs, and pursue more senior roles in Government.
Lord Mandelson said that at present he is unable to resign from his title, but constitutional reform is an option.
The Lords is expected to undergo radical changes over the next several years, and will eventually become mostly, if not wholly, elected.
At present Lords are appointed by the Queen on the advice of the prime minister, party leaders and the appointments commission.
(PR/BMcC)
Lord Sugar, as he will be known, was appointed to the Upper Chamber by Prime Minister Gordon Brown.
The BBC Apprentice star will operate as an 'enterprise tzar' for the Government.
The former Amstrad owner will not join the Cabinet and but is expected to take the Government whip.
It is said to be a purely advisory role, but has prompted Lord Sugar to stand down from several directorships to avoid any conflicts of interest.
There were originally fears that the 62-year-old's appointment could compromise the BBC's impartiality, with speculation that the next series of the Apprentice could run during canvassing for the 2010 general election.
First Secretary of State Lord Mandelson sparked a debate over the renouncing of life peerages at the weekend.
Currently only hereditary peers can disclaim their titles, which would allow them to stand as MPs, and pursue more senior roles in Government.
Lord Mandelson said that at present he is unable to resign from his title, but constitutional reform is an option.
The Lords is expected to undergo radical changes over the next several years, and will eventually become mostly, if not wholly, elected.
At present Lords are appointed by the Queen on the advice of the prime minister, party leaders and the appointments commission.
(PR/BMcC)
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Britain celebrates Trafalgar bicentenary
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27 October 2009
Bercow's Talks On Cabinet Peers
Moves could be afoot to make Cabinet Ministers sitting in the House of Lord more accountable. At present peers appointed to ministerial posts cannot be questioned by MPs in the Commons Chamber. The two distinct houses operate in tandem but there is no cross-over with regards to direct questions from the benches.
Bercow's Talks On Cabinet Peers
Moves could be afoot to make Cabinet Ministers sitting in the House of Lord more accountable. At present peers appointed to ministerial posts cannot be questioned by MPs in the Commons Chamber. The two distinct houses operate in tandem but there is no cross-over with regards to direct questions from the benches.
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Northern Ireland WeatherToday:After a dry start this morning rain will spread from the northwest across all parts. This afternoon will be dull with some patchy rain and drizzle. Becoming much milder through the afternoon. Maximum temperature 11 °C.Tonight:A cloudy evening and night with a little light rain or drizzle, perhaps some clear periods developing along the east coast. A very mild night everywhere. Minimum temperature 10 °C.
