King Charles III Delivers Labour Government's First King's Speech
King Charles III delivered the Labour government's first King's Speech in the House of Lords on 17 July 2024. It outlined priorities like workers' rights, railways renationalization, and housing reform. The speech marks the beginning of the new parliamentary year following Labour's victory in the general election.
King Charles III delivered the Labour government's first King's Speech in the House of Lords on 17 July 2024.
The speech marks the start of the new parliamentary year and outlines the government's priorities following Labour's general election victory.
It is written by the government and delivered by the monarch in a neutral tone.
The 2024 King's Speech included proposed laws on workers' rights, railways renationalization, illegal immigration, housing and planning, and House of Lords reform.
The State Opening of Parliament began with a traditional procession from Buckingham Palace to Westminster.
MPs are summoned to the House of Lords by Black Rod, currently Sarah Clarke, who knocks three times to gain entry.
The government MP holding the position of vice-chamberlain of the household, currently Samantha Dixon, is held at Buckingham Palace during the speech as a form of protocol.
The King's Speech debate in the House of Commons typically lasts about five days, concluding with a symbolic vote.
The 2023 King's Speech had outlined 21 proposed laws, including transport investment and tougher sentences for offenders, but many were abandoned due to the general election called by former Prime Minister Rishi Sunak.