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Lord Michael Forsyth of Drumlean, a former Conservative minister, has been selected as the new Speaker of the House of Lords. The role carries significant responsibilities including presiding over debates among peers, conducting ceremonial duties such as those at the State Opening of Parliament, and holding the authority to summon ministers to address urgent parliamentary questions.
Lord Forsyth will succeed Lord John McFall of Alcluith, who is stepping down to provide care for his wife following her diagnosis with Parkinson’s disease. Having won the position over Baroness Deborah Bull, Lord Forsyth is set to begin his five-year term on the Woolsack in February, with the appointment officially endorsed by King Charles.
During his campaign for the Speakership, Lord Forsyth emphasized the need for “leadership for a more effective, respected and influential House.” He highlighted the increasing burden on the Lords as the Commons faces challenges in properly scrutinizing legislation. After his appointment was confirmed, Lord Forsyth expressed gratitude to his supporters as well as to Baroness Bull, commending her “vigorous, courteous, and friendly campaign.” He also praised Lord McFall for his contributions to improving governance and accountability within the House, stating his intention to continue advancing these efforts both as chair of the House of Lords Commission and as Lord Speaker.
With a political career spanning nearly five decades, Lord Forsyth began his public service in 1978 when he was elected to Westminster City Council soon after graduating from the University of St Andrews. He became the Member of Parliament for Stirling in 1983 and served in ministerial roles under Prime Ministers Margaret Thatcher and John Major, including positions at the Home Office and as secretary of state for Scotland from 1995 until he lost his seat during the 1997 Labour landslide. His former constituency encompassed Dunblane, the site of the tragic 1996 massacre, an event that has left a lasting impression on him. Elevated to the House of Lords as a Conservative peer in 1999, he has chaired several committees, notably the Financial Services Regulation Committee. His bid for Lord Speaker also received endorsements from notable figures such as former Labour Home Secretary Lord Blunkett and retired judge Baroness Butler-Sloss. Baroness Bull, his rival in the election, is a former principal dancer at the Royal Ballet and currently serves as a deputy speaker
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