Queen's Speech
The Queen’s Speech takes place at the start of each Parliamentary session and forms the central part of the State Opening of Parliament.
Photo credit: Toby Melville/PA Wire
The Queen’s Speech sets out the government’s policies and proposed legislative programme for the new parliamentary session. It is given in the presence of members of both Houses, the Commons being summoned to hear the speech by an official known as ‘Black Rod’.
Copyright UK Parliament / Photography by Jessica Taylor.
Who writes the speech
Although the speech is delivered by the Queen, the content of the speech is entirely drawn up by the government and approved by the Cabinet.
Copyright House of Lords 2015 / Photography by Roger Harris. Parliamentary copyright.
What happens after the speech is given
Following the State Opening, the government’s programme is debated by both Houses. In the Commons the first motion is that the House send an address to the Queen thanking her for the speech.
The subsequent debate, which lasts several days, is a chance for MPs to speak on any matter of government.
Copyright House of Lords 2015 / Photography by Roger Harris. Parliamentary copyright.
What the process is
The State Opening of Parliament takes place when Parliament reassembles after a general election, and then at the start of each new Parliamentary session.
The Queen drives in state from Buckingham Palace to Westminster. The Imperial State Crown, the Sword of State and the Cap of Maintenance are transported to London by coach ahead of her. Only the monarch can call a Parliament together and no business can take place until the Queen reads her speech.
Copyright House of Lords 2015 / Photography by Roger Harris. Parliamentary copyright.
Further information
The British Monarchy
UK Parliament
Flickr: The Queen and her Prime Ministers
Last updated 23 May 2014 + show all updates
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Changed for 2014 speech.
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Updated for 2013
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First published.