Sir Keir Starmer will be hoping that an ambitious legislative agenda will persuade MPs and the public that he is the right man to lead the country as he battles to save his job. King Charles will set out the government’s legislative priorities for the next year this morning, with the primary aim of 'restoring hope,' ministers said.
Key Policies in the King's Speech
The speech will include policies on immigration, green energy, and reforms to special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) schooling. The government said the package would amount to an 'ambitious programme to break with the status quo,' with more than 35 Bills expected to be unveiled, including one to give the government powers to renationalise British Steel.
Defence
The government is expected to go big on defence as part of an attempt to show that Sir Keir is taking threats from abroad seriously, amid mounting turbulence in the Middle East and growing threats from Russia and China. Ministers have promised legislation to 'strengthen our defences and keep pace with modern technologies, from cyber-attacks to new powers to counter state threats.' New laws will also make it easier to take action against state-backed groups, such as the proscription of the Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps.
Immigration
Legislation is expected on restricting the use of Article 8 of the European Convention of Human Rights – the right to respect for private and family life – as part of an attempt to clamp down on illegal arrivals. New laws could deny appeal rights to more people and establish an independent appeal body to hear claims currently considered by judges.
Housing
Leasehold reforms are expected to give people more control over their homes and provide stronger rights for homeowners. Legislation to protect social housing stock and better protect domestic abuse survivors will also be included.
Energy
The Energy Independence Bill will give the government more power to cut energy costs and speed up delivery of clean energy technologies and grid infrastructure. This is part of a wider mission to 'get off the fossil fuel rollercoaster' amid soaring oil prices caused by Middle East conflict.
British Steel
Legislation will protect the UK’s steelmaking capacity by giving government options to nationalise British Steel if it passes the public interest test for public ownership.
What Might Not Be Included
Notably, the government's pre-released trail did not include further plans to crack down on welfare, despite such a move being floated amid pressure to slash the benefits bill. It also did not include plans for a social media ban for under-16s, as ministers await the outcome of a consultation opened in March.
