News

Wednesday 3 December 2008

Queen’s Speech 2008

The Queen has outlined the Government’s priorities for the coming Parliamentary year in the Queen’s Speech following today’s official state opening of Parliament.

Read the transcript - Queen’s Speech 2008

The stability of the British economy in a period of economic downturn was highlighted as a key area for Government action. Legislation will be introduced to strengthen the financial sector and protect businesses and families through, for example, a Banking Bill and a Welfare Reform Bill.

The Queen said:

“My Government is committed to helping families and businesses through difficult times.

“The strength of the financial sector is vital to the future vibrancy of the economy. Therefore, legislation will continue to be taken forward to ensure fairer and more secure protection for bank depositors and to improve the resilience of the financial sector.”

Queen’s Speech 2008 - Full list of Bills:

Banking Bill

Saving Gateway Accounts Bill

Local Democracy, Economic Development and Construction Bill

Welfare Reform Bill

Policing and Crime Bill

Coroners and Justice Bill

Borders, Immigration and Citizenship Bill

Equality Bill

Child Poverty Bill

Health Bill

Children, Skills and Learning Bill

Marine and Coastal Access Bill

Political Parties and Elections Bill - carried over from the 2007-08 session (not mentioned in speech)

Business Rates Supplements Bill (not mentioned in speech)

Other items in the Queen’s Speech:

Constitutional Renewal

Northern Ireland

European Action 

G20 Summit

Middle East and Iran

Afghanistan and Pakistan

President of Mexico

More information

Speeches and Transcripts: The Queen’s Speech 2008

About the Queen’s Speech

Newsletter

Around the Web

Facebook Logo

History and Tour