Lord Hendy’s marathon speech puts House of Lords to sleep mid-debate
A long-winded speech in the House of Lords left peers struggling to stay awake this week. Lord John Hendy’s detailed account of trade union laws from 1871 to 1913 was branded a 'minor classic' in dullness. Meanwhile, Labour MPs criticised the Lords for blocking parts of Angela Rayner’s employment rights Bill, calling the chamber undemocratic.
Lord Hendy’s speech began with the Trade Union Act of 1871. By the time he reached 1913, several peers appeared to be dozing off. Despite promising to 'wind up,' he pressed on with further legal details, prompting audible groans from colleagues.
The incidents have drawn attention to the pace of parliamentary debates and the influence of unelected peers. Lord Hendy’s speech, in particular, has become a talking point for its slow delivery and dense historical focus. With Labour’s recent appointments to the Lords, further clashes between the two houses may follow. The list of 'bores' in both chambers also remains a lighthearted but persistent topic among Westminster staff and journalists.
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