Britain’s first all-Conservative government in two decades unveils its plans for power Wednesday, including laws to hold a referendum on European Union membership, give Scotland more autonomy and toughen immigration policies.
The list of proposed legislation was read by Queen Elizabeth II at the State Opening of Parliament, an annual blend of politics and pomp replete with gilded throne, diamond-studded crown and officials in antiquated garb.
It follows a May 7 election that unexpectedly gave Prime Minister David Cameron’s center-right Conservatives a parliamentary majority — and with it the power to implement a political agenda without coalition compromises.
The Queen’s Speech, delivered by the monarch but written by the government, included legislation to cap welfare benefits, freeze some taxes for five years and hold a vote on EU membership by the end of 2017 — all key Conservative election promises.
The queen said the government would adopt a “One Nation approach, helping working people get on.”
— AP
Yeoman of the Guard pass through the Peer’s Lobby during the ceremonial search ahead of the State Opening of Parliament, in the House of Lords at the Palace of Westminster in London, May 27, 2015. (John Stillwell/AP)
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