The hereditary peers were kicked out, but there are still no concrete details for the second stage in which the Lords will be replaced by elected members. Independent think tank the Constitution Unit, based at University College London, says the next stage of constitutional reform will depend on firm leadership, careful planning and political will. But it warns there will be tensions - not least over proposals to reduce the number of MSPs at Holyrood in line with the reduction in MPs at Westminster. Although it is included in the legislation, even some ministers are not convinced. The think tank claims Labour may struggle to deliver its promises, including electoral reform and a referendum on the euro and believes a cabinet office minister should be put in overall charge.
Lords reform is needed quickly to get members in place.
Future devolution issues such as reducing the size of the Scottish Parliament, the funding formula for devolution and regional government, call for a joined-up approach. The timetable for regional government in England depends on political will. With strong commitment the new government could establish regional assemblies by 2004. Labour has ruled out any early referendum on introducing a more proportional voting system until a review of the next PR elections in Scotland and Wales in 2003 has taken place.