Reaction to the King’s Speech 2024

On July 17, 2024, King Charles presented the new Labour government’s legislative plans for the upcoming parliamentary session in the King’s Speech, the highlight of the State Opening of Parliament. This speech marked the beginning of what Sir Keir Starmer envisions as a “decade of renewal.”

The legislative package, comprising 40 Bills and Draft Bills aimed at “taking the brakes off Britain,” included proposals for establishing a National Wealth Fund, Great British Energy, Great British Railways, and a Border Security Command.

Yesterday's announcements also covered Labour’s plans regarding workers’ rights. Although these plans were somewhat diluted during the election campaign, they could still significantly differentiate the Government from businesses and the Conservative opposition.

The Planning and Infrastructure Bill underscores the Labour Party’s focus on growth since winning the election on July 4, targeting obstacles to new house building and infrastructure projects. This Bill aims to minimise potential barriers in designated areas, with the Government stating it would “enable democratic engagement with how, not if, homes and infrastructure are built.”

Additionally, the King’s Speech today included three Bills initially introduced under Rishi Sunak’s premiership: the Tobacco and Vapes Bill, which aims to implement a phased smoking ban and restrict vape sales and advertising; the creation of a new football regulator in England; and reforms to enhance renters’ rights.

This Dods Political Intelligence report provides a one-stop guide to the King’s Speech, including a breakdown of the planned bills and initial reaction from a range of relevant stakeholders.