HL Deb 31 March 1998 vol 588 cc17-8WA
Lord Patten

asked Her Majesty's Government:

Whether a citizen of the Irish Republic who is not also a British citizen is eligible for consideration for a life peerage. [H11086]

Lord McIntosh of Haringey

As set out in the House of Lords Companion to the Standing Orders and Guide to Proceedings of the House of Lords, citizens of the Republic of Ireland may sit in this House. In practice, it is unlikely that the Prime Minister would recommend that Her Majesty confer a life peerage on an Irish citizen unless that person would bring to the proceedings of the House relevant experience of UK life. The Oath of Allegiance (or Affirmation) must be taken (or made) before any Peer can sit or vote in the House of Lords.