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Honours System (Reform)

: The hon. Gentleman's analysis is incorrect. We have not had revolutions in Britain because, in time, Governments have bowed to the will of the people and created a more civilised society. We have, particularly in the 20th century, been less repressive or oppressive than some other societies. After the second world war, a magnificent Labour Government created the welfare state and redistributed income and wealth as never before. That is why we have not had revolutions—Governments have given way, sensibly, to the demands of the people.