The Queen's Speech, which sets out the government's agenda for the next parliamentary term, was delivered by Prince Charles today (Tuesday 10 May).
The Queen cancelled her appearance at the State Opening of Parliament this year due to her ongoing mobility issues, making it the first time she has missed the event in more than 60 years. Prince William also attended the ceremony for the first time.
Some 38 bills were announced in the programme, including new laws around Brexit, education and levelling up. Here are five key announcements from the Speech - and what they mean for you.
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Energy
The Queen's Speech announced the Energy Security Bill, which will 'deliver the transition to cheaper, cleaner, and more secure energy.' It will also encourage the creation of tens of thousands of high-skill, high-paid jobs and will extend the energy price cap, preventing suppliers from overcharging consumers.
Brexit
The Brexit Freedoms bill will enable law inherited from the European Union to be more easily amended. It will usher in new powers to strengthen the ability to amend, repeal or replace the retained EU laws and will 'clarify the status of retained EU law in UK domestic law.'
A free trade deal with Australia and New Zealand will also be introduced.
Trains
Legislation will be introduced to modernise rail services and improve reliability for passengers. The Transport Bill will see the creation of a new body, the Great British Railways, which promises to deliver a better experience for passengers and freight customers with 'more punctual and reliable services.'
Schools
Reforms to education will 'help every child fulfil their potential wherever they live, raising standards and improving the quality of schools and higher education.' The Higher Education Bill will bring with it a new 'Lifelong Loan Entitlement,' described as a 'flexible way' or providing loan support for post-18 study.
It will provide individuals with a loan entitlement equivalent to four years of post-18 education (£37,000) that can be used over their lifetime for a wider range of studies, including shorter and technical courses.
Levelling Up
There has been plenty of talk about 'levelling up' from Prime Minister Boris Johnson, and now the Levelling Up and Regeneration Bill will seek to drive local growth and empower leaders to regenerate towns and cities across England. It includes 'laying the foundations for all of England to have the opportunity to benefit from a devolution deal by 2030.'
Housing will also be levelled up, with a Social Housing Regulation Bill introduced to 'eradicate the poor treatment of tenants by some landlords.' Similarly, the Renters Reform Bill will abolish the so-called ‘no fault’ Section 21 evictions and strengthen landlords’ rights of possession, providing 'a fair and effective market for both tenants and landlords.'
