On November 7, 2023, King Charles set out the Conservative government’s legislative plans for the forthcoming parliamentary session in the King’s Speech, the centrepiece of the State Opening of Parliament. With a general election expected in the autumn of 2024, and due by January 2025 at the latest, and the Conservatives trailing in the polls, the address represents a key opportunity for Prime Minister Rishi Sunak to set out his party’s priorities and ambitions.
What the speech did and didn’t include
The package of 21 bills designed to grow the economy, strengthen society, and keep people safe, includes plans to run annual North Sea oil and gas licensing rounds, phase out smoking, toughen sentences for serious criminal offences, reform the leasehold system for houses, and regulate driverless vehicles and London’s pedicabs. Contrary to some expectations, the legislative plans did not include a ban on conversion therapy, curbs on the use of tents by homeless people, or new rules to prevent councils from implementing measures to reduce neighbourhood traffic.
Stakeholder reactions
Reactions from stakeholders are diverse and highlight concerns and perspectives on the 21 bills. Statements from specialists and representatives from a range of sectors are included in our comprehensive report.
Download the report
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.