15 DECEMBER 1928, Page 2

Although Lord Clarendon suggests that Peers should elect their own

representatives, he is not thinking of an elected House of Lords in the ordinary sense. In our judgment it would be fatal for the Upper House to be elected from the outside whether by direct or indirect voting. Jealousy and rivalry would at once be set up in the House of Commons. What is wanted in the House of Lords is a competent body of men to revise and delay doubtful legislation ; and for a long time the Lords, to their credit, have not claimed any other function. Democracy would logically be fulfilled if in the event of a deadlock between the two Houses it were possible to apply a Referendum to any Bill in its completed form. The people would decide.