Assess the arguments in favour of an elected House of Lords

The main arguments in favour of an elected House of Lords are that this would enhance democratic legitimcy in the House of Lords , widen the basis for represention and this could increase checks on government and executive power. The argument that an elected House of Lords will enhance democratic legitimacy is strong because the current system of appointed members lacks democratic legitimacy because no competitive elections have taken place. Conversely, there is a risk that elections would result in having a partisan House of Lords, as peers may rely on parties to get elected and therefore the House of Lords may lose its independence. The arguement that two elected chambers would widen the basis for representation is strong because there is potential to use a proportional representation system. However, many would argue that one can achieve a more diverse house through appointment because people are chosen based on their experience and knowledge not on how well they can campaign. Lastly, the argument that an elected chamber can act as a check on government power is strong because only an elected chamber can properly check another elected body. However some may argue there are many checks on government power and this is an unessesary reform that could make passing legislation harder.