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UK has a Bicameral System but does not mean that both houses are equal
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For most of 18th and 19th century, many PMs were from the House of Lords
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When legislation was passed both houses had to equally pass it
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1906–1914 there was a much more radical and liberal government
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Old Age Pensions Act 1908
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Pension of 5 shillings per week (7 shillings 6 pence for married couples)
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Equivalent of £23/£37
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The Tory House of Lords rejected the Liberals’ “People’s Budget” in 1909
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National insurance 1911
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Created NI
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Foundations of the modern welfare state
Parliament Act 1911
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The House of Lords could accept the Act and lose some of their powers
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Or the King would make 300 Liberal Lords
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The House of Lords passes the Parliament Act
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Showed that the House of Commons can force legislation through Parliament
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They are sovereign
Powers removed
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Removed absolute veto of the House of Lords
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Restricted their power to delay to 2 years
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Prevented from delaying money bills
Powers retained
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Amend, delay (up to 2 years), scrutinise bills
Parliament Act 1949
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House of Lords can only delay by 1 year
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Passed under the 1911 Act i.e. took 2 years to get royal assent
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House of Lords never approved
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Challenged in R (Jackson) v. Attorney General (2005)
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House of Lords court held that the 1911 Act could be used to pass the 1949 Act