Leading article: Peer pressure
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.It's easy to mock the Lords and the presence of bishops and worthies in its midst. But it is in the Upper Chamber rather than the Commons that the most representative, and most relevant, debates are now taking place, as yesterday's seven-hour discussion on the "assisted dying for the terminally ill Bill" graphically displayed. On an issue of real concern to people, and real division, the Lords debated the questions in a way that a managed and professionalised Commons has ceased even to attempt.
That says something about the Commons and the low standard of its discussions on anything that does not reflect an immediate party political issue. But it also says something about the role of the House of Lords and its continued relevance on issues from civil liberties to scientific research. That the Lords needs reforming goes without saying, but that we need to proceed with caution to retain its independence and expertise also needs emphasising.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments