The chief officer of the House of Commons is the Speaker. He is elected by the House at the beginning of each Parliament. His chief function is to preside over the House in its debate. When elected the Speaker must not belong to any party.
The House of Lords underwent a major reform in 1999. Today it is composed of Lords Spiritual (2 Anglican Archbishops and 24 Bishops), 21 law lords and life peers (appointed for life).