ELI5: Explain Like I'm 5

Hereditary peer

Okay, so you know how in school, sometimes if you're really good at something, you get a medal or a certificate to show that you're great at it? Well, being a hereditary peer is kind of like that, but instead of a medal or a certificate, you get to be part of the special group of important people who help make decisions in the government of the United Kingdom.

Being a hereditary peer means that you were born into a family that has been important and influential in the government for a really long time. The title of peer is passed down from parent to child, like how your mom or dad might have their last name that they pass down to you.

People who are hereditary peers get to have a special title, like "duke" or "baron," that shows just how important and special they are. And even though they didn't do anything themselves to be born into their special position, they can still use their power and influence to help make important decisions about how the country should be run.

Some people think that being a hereditary peer is unfair, because it means that certain families have more power and influence than others, just because of who their parents are. But others think that it's important to have these special people in the government, because they often have a lot of experience and knowledge that can be helpful when it comes to making important decisions.