20 July 2009

Lord Sugar Takes Up New Job

Business mogul Sir Alan Sugar took his seat in the House of Lords this afternoon, amid talks of a mechanism that would allow life peers to renounce their titles.

Lord Sugar, as he will be known, was appointed to the Upper Chamber by Prime Minister Gordon Brown.

The BBC Apprentice star will operate as an 'enterprise tzar' for the Government.

The former Amstrad owner will not join the Cabinet and but is expected to take the Government whip.

It is said to be a purely advisory role, but has prompted Lord Sugar to stand down from several directorships to avoid any conflicts of interest.

There were originally fears that the 62-year-old's appointment could compromise the BBC's impartiality, with speculation that the next series of the Apprentice could run during canvassing for the 2010 general election.

First Secretary of State Lord Mandelson sparked a debate over the renouncing of life peerages at the weekend.

Currently only hereditary peers can disclaim their titles, which would allow them to stand as MPs, and pursue more senior roles in Government.

Lord Mandelson said that at present he is unable to resign from his title, but constitutional reform is an option.

The Lords is expected to undergo radical changes over the next several years, and will eventually become mostly, if not wholly, elected.

At present Lords are appointed by the Queen on the advice of the prime minister, party leaders and the appointments commission.

(PR/BMcC)