Second House, second homeNow that we are to have a new House of Lords-sooner or later-it has been suggested that the second chamber of the UK parliament be situated away from London. One idea is Birmingham or indeed Blackpool as a consolation for not getting the super Casino.
Hutton Think Tank who originally suggested an upgraded Hutton village hall for what might be called a House of Lairds, in the local idiom, have now opted for Berwick upon Tweed. You will remember that Berwick was once proposed as an alternative capital being in a sort of no mans land between England and Scotland(this in the assumption that Scots are not going to do something really stupid like seeking independence)Berwick with its history of a separate status, excellent rail links, well developed infrastructure including three wonderful bridges, an excellent and under used port, more caravan sites than you could shake a stick at, and the real prospect of a Tesco's just down the road has all the attributes to offer the reformed House of Lords-or House of Top Persons as it will more politically correctly called-a viable and comfortable home. And symbolically it would represent the beating heart of government amongst real people away from the hothouse of the Westminster village.
And a bonus: very convenient for Lord Paxton-in-waiting. And he can live at home with no additional cost to the taxpayer.
An appropriate building?
The Maltings of course. Give it a worthwhile and cost efficient new lease of life. The theatre would make a very pleasant second chamber; ample parking and within walking distance of at least one public toilet in addition to the facilities already on site.
Go for it
