Prince Charles will today read the Queen's speech for the first time, after the 96-year-old monarch pulled out due to problems with her mobility, making it the first time since 1963 that she has not given it herself. Prince William, the Duke of Cambridge, will also attend open Parliament, after the Queen granted special permission.
It's a ceremonial occasion, setting out the laws the government wishes to pass, and the priorities for the month's ahead. The speech is expected to discuss Brexit freedom bills, schools, levelling up and regeneration, the animal welfare bill, and mental health bill, among other topics. The speech usually has a theme, with this year's speech focusing on growing the economy, easing the cost of living for families, and levelling up.
Her Majesty's throne will remain empty in the House of Lords, where the speech will be given, but the Imperial State Crown, which she usually wears to the event, will still go to Parliament.
When is the Queen's Speech?
The speech will take place today at 11.30am.
Coverage will air on BBC News from 10.30am until 12.15pm, and you can also watch on BBC News via BBC iPlayer.
It will also be broadcast again on BBC One at 2.20pm, for 10 minutes.
There will also be coverage on Sky News, which you can watch online via its live YouTube stream.
The Queen began to struggle with her mobility last autumn, with Prince Charles heading up royal events in her stead as heir to the throne. She has been instructed by doctors to cancel her attendance at the event and did so “reluctantly”.
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