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House of Lords: Maiden and valedictory speeches, 2022–2024

The first speech made by a member of the House of Lords is known as a maiden speech. Section 2 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 last two sessions of 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 last two sessions of parliament eight members chose to take up this opportunity—the full text of three of these speeches can be found in section 3.