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The National (Scotland)
The National (Scotland)
National
Lucy Jackson

Everything you need to know about the King’s Speech as parliamentary term starts

KING Charles is due to give his King’s Speech as part of the State Opening of Parliament on Wednesday.

It will mark the official beginning of Keir Starmer’s Labour Government and the sitting of Parliament – the first time Labour has been in power since 2010.

The speech will be held on July 17 and is expected to include around 35 bills, trumping the last speech on November 7 which featured 21 bills.

Here’s everything you need to know.


What is the King’s Speech?

The King’s Speech provides the UK Government with the opportunity to highlight its priorities for the coming months.

Formally known as the “speech from the throne,” it is a key part of the State Opening of Parliament ceremony.

The speech is written by the Government but delivered by the monarch (below). Its length can depend on the proposed number of laws and announcements although it generally lasts around 10 minutes.

It brings together both the members of the House of Commons and the House of Lords.


When is the King's Speech?

According to the UK Parliament’s website, the speech will begin around 11.25am and it is likely to be available to watch via all major broadcasters.

Business is then suspended until 2.30pm, after which the debate on the King’s Speech is opened.

The debate on the King’s Speech is expected to last for six sitting days, until July 25.

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