Member

I do not have the same reservations as some—including the noble Lord, Lord Burns—that the House is too large in its current format. This House benefits from the breadth of amateur expertise that it is able to call on. Although reasonable participation is to be encouraged and retirement at a certain age may be advisable, we should avoid our membership becoming too professionalised as full-time politicians and legislators. I add my voice to the opposition to Amendment 11 on those grounds.