Timid Members of the House of Lords will perhaps say
that the risk inherent in the course we recommend is too great. The Government's reply to the House of Lords, it is urged, would be an instant Dissolution, and an appeal to the country for the abolition of the Lords as well as for the adoption of non-contributory old-age pensions. For our- selves, we may say at once that we should like nothing better than to see an immediate Dissolution on the pensions question, coupled with the denial of the right of the Lords to take part in the work of legislation. We are confident that the action of the Lords would be endorsed by the country. As a matter of fact, however, the Lords need have no fear of the Government dissolving. They dare not appeal to the electors. If the Lords refuse to pass a Bill which has not only been forced through the House of Commons by the "guillotine," but is a Bill which even its own authors admit is imperfect and must remain imperfect till the Report of the Poor Law Commission is received, they will take up a position so firm and so reasonable as to defy assault.
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