An integral part of the State Opening of Parliament ceremony is the Queen's Speech, providing the government an opportunity to share its plans for the next parliamentary year. The speech last Monday, Oct. 14, was particularly noteworthy as it will be the last Queen's Speech scheduled before Brexit on Oct. 31 this year. The speech would also be the first one in two years since the previous prime minister, Theresa May, wanted the two years for Parliament to focus on Brexit.
The speech has highlighted 26 bills planned for the United Kingdom with laws focusing on the sectors of crime, healthcare, environment, family, and economic opportunity. The UK government has committed itself to the safety of its people with the introduction of bills that strengthen the justice system and provide support for victims and their families. The Sentencing Bill delays the automatic release date for offenders with a four-year-or-more sentence from halfway to two-thirds of the period. The Police Protection Bill will support the police force by establishing a covenant that recognizes their efforts. Other noteworthy proposals include bills that empower the police and to provide support to victims by amendment of existing laws.
Their commitment to better healthcare takes shape in their support for the functions of the NHS. Some noteworthy legislation being planned for the healthcare sector include the Medicines and Medical Devices Bill which makes access to innovative medicine easier for citizens and modernization of the Mental Health Act so that patients may receive the best healthcare for their mental health.
On the environment, the legislation focuses on the conservation of natural resources and animal welfare. The Environment Bill, which the government considers as a landmark in environmental conservation laws, will establish an Office of Environmental Protection, increase local government's power to minimize air pollution, and to charge establishments providing specified single-use plastic. The Animal Welfare Bill heightens penalties for offenders of animal cruelty, improves the welfare of animals to be sent to slaughterhouses, and bans the movement of exotic animals within and outside the country's borders.
Opportunities for the government for its citizens mostly revolve on better infrastructure, education, and science. More funding can be expected for schools, effectively increasing the amount spent on each student. Scientists from all over the country can expect more funding for their research as the country envisions itself as a "global science superpower." Those delayed from their flights can expect better service from airlines with a proposed bill that seeks to make it easier for stranded passengers to get to their destination safely.
Finally, the protection of the family as the basic unit of society is legislated in bills such as the Domestic Abuse Bill, which protects and assists victims of domestic abuse and the Divorce, Dissolution and Separation Bill, which avoids any unnecessary burden on the children affected.
The proposed laws are very ambitious, yet it is forecasted that most, if not some, may not be passed into law. The current Prime Minister Boris Johnson does not have the majority of Parliament, which could make these promises seem like empty words. As such, all eyes are on the government as they prepare to leave the European Union on Oct. 31.
