Risks Cited in Lords Reform Plan

In a speech in the House of Lords, Viscount Astor noted that a joint committee that examined the Government's proposals, has suggested the reformed Lords should have of 450 members

On the basis of recent opinion poll findings, that house would have about 45 UK Independence Party members and 10 BNP members, he said.

"In fact Ukip could have more peers than the Lib Dems. Ukip stand to gain most and, the rather frightening thought, the BNP might for the first time be represented in Westminster. One would have thought that was the very last thing the coalition would want."

Several Conservative government aides in the Commons have signalled they are prepared to quit over the reform, and Viscount Astor urged ministers to listen to those MPs.

He said: "The proposed Lords reform is heading for an almighty train crash. I wonder whether sensible voices will be heard down the other end, or whether the train will have to crash before a sensible plan appears.”

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