When and how did Britain become a two chamber democracy?

Question

You know, a bicameral system, with the House of Lords and the House of Commons, it wasn't always, was it? So when and how did it come about?

Answer 1

Britain has had a bicameral parliament since its inception in 1707. Prior to that each constituent part of the United Kingdom had its own parliament.

Answer 2

well British Parliament arose in the 13th century, i think it was in 1265 that Simon deMontford called on 2 burgers (townsman) from each shire and borough to make up Parliament.The bicameral system developed between the House of Lords (made up from the landed aristocracy ect) and the elected members from the towns made up the House of Commons. The power shift developed gradually thus we have the system we have today.

however you may want someone to check this becuase it's what i learnt in history and i tend to switch off and daydream occasionally. hope it helps though :)

Answer 3

Britain is a Constitutional Monarchy, but powers have been given to / invested in a two chamber political system for generations.

But back then, the Prime Minister didn't sell peerages & democratic power in the House of Lords for a sneaky million quid back-hander!!

Answer 4

here's a bit of info:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/House_of_lords

Answer 5

its been around for a very very long time...