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House of Lords: Maiden and Valedictory Speeches, 2017-2019

The first speech made by a Member of the House of Lords is known as a maiden speech. The second section of this Library briefing includes the full text of a selection of recent maiden speeches, made by a cross-section of Members from different parties and affiliations, to illustrate the range of styles and subjects covered by new Members in their first contribution to the proceedings of the House of Lords. A list of all Members’ maiden speeches made in the House of Lords during the course of the 2017–2019 parliament can be found in the appendices.

The House of Lords Reform Act 2014 enabled Members to retire from the House of Lords. It was agreed that Members should be given the opportunity to make a valedictory speech to mark their retirement. During the 2017–2019 parliament only two Members chose to take up this opportunity. The third section of this briefing includes the full text of both speeches.