House of Lords

They are also arguing the move would unblock the passage of its wider employment rights bill through Parliament, after the House of Lords twice voted for a six-month period, delaying its progress.

But in recent weeks the House of Lords has twice voted in favour of a six-month period, slowing the legislation's passage through Parliament.

Two peers are set to be suspended from the House of Lords for breaching rules on providing parliamentary services in return for "payment or reward".

When MPs, members of the House of Lords and their staff were warned about the threat from Chinese spies, in one office in Westminster, a quick check began.

Peers have called for more time to debate legislation which would introduce assisted dying in England and Wales, as the bill makes slow progress through the House of Lords.