Peers elected to the second chamber would expect to be paid and enjoy proper working facilities like their colleagues in the Commons.

BBC: Irvine backs appointed Lords

With Australian prime minister John Howard and four of his predecessors sitting in the Commons gallery watching proceedings , Mr Blair announced he was to create a "proper and fitting war memorial to those American servicemen and women who lost their lives" in two world wars.

BBC: Questions over Blair's Commons blunders

"What we want is a proper inquiry.... not restricted to the internal workings of the House of Commons, " Sir Menzies added.

BBC: Labour MP urges Speaker to resign