Queen’s Speech 2022: When is it and what new laws could be introduced?

Every year, the Queen gives a speech to Parliament to outline the Government’s plans over the next year and any Bills it hopes to introduce.

Written by Her Majesty’s ministers, the speech details a list of Bills – but not everything announced in it is guaranteed to become a law.

The speech forms part of the State Opening of Parliament ceremony, which traditionally begins with the Queen travelling from Buckingham Palace to Westminster in a carriage procession.

However, the Queen’s health and mobility has fluctuated in 2022, so it currently remains unclear as to whether she will personally attend the state opening or if Prince Charles will take her place instead.

However, not everything announced will become law. Time constraints, fierce opposition and political wrangling can mean some Bills are delayed or dropped altogether.

When is the Queen’s Speech this year?

The Queen is due to give her traditional speech on 10 May.

What is the significance of the Queen’s Speech?

Issues relating to the country are brought to Parliament’s attention in the Queen’s Speech.

Within hours of the speech being delivered (in the presence of MPs, peers and other dignitaries in the House of Lords), MPs reassemble in the House of Commons to debate the matters included in it.

The Prime Minister brings the list of Bills to the attention of MPs as an outline for the year’s plans – before the Leader of the Opposition has the chance to respond, and then in turn all other MPs.

Not everything announced in the speech is guaranteed to become law, with time constraints and fierce opposition causing delays or matters being dropped completely.