King Charles is set to address parliament today as Prime Minister Keir Starmer faces threats to his leadership. While the King's Speech will be read by King Charles, it is actually written by the government. The King's Speech is delivered at the start of a parliamentary session annually. It's the government's chance to outline its proposed policies and legislation for the new parliamentary season. While it will outline all the bills planned, some might not become law, and bills can also be passed by the government later that weren't included in the speech. There's always a bit of pomp and pageantry to the affair as the House of Commons, House of Lords and monarch are all brought together.
Bizarre Traditions
The King's speech is shrouded in tradition and has some pretty unique ceremonial traditions dating back to the 16th century. Before King Charles arrives in Westminster, the Yeomen of the Guard search the cellars of the palace for bombs – referencing Guy Fawkes' gunpowder plot in 1605.
Another weird tradition sees a parliamentary official, called Black Rod, have the door of the Commons slammed in their face. To be let back in, they must knock three times with the rod – representing the right of Commons to exclude royal messengers. This is because in 1642, Charles I tried to arrest five MPs while Parliament was in session.
Lastly, one MP, normally the vice-chamberlain, who is Sir Nic Dakin MP, is ceremonially 'held hostage' in Buckingham Palace during the speech, to make sure he returns safely.
What Will the King Speak About?
The government announced that King Charles will speak about 35 bills and draft bills, ranging from the economy to energy. They include laws to restore order and 'control' to the immigration system, strengthen public services and reform the government. Ahead of the speech, Starmer said: 'The British people expect the Government to get on with the job of changing our country for the better. Cutting the cost of living, bringing down hospital waiting lists and keeping our country safe in an increasingly dangerous world. Britain stands at a pivotal moment: to press ahead with a plan to build a stronger, fairer country or turn back to the chaos and instability of the past.'
In their first King's speech since retaking power in 2024, Labour announced sweeping changes, including confirmation of VAT on private school fees and plans to build 1.5 million new homes.
What Time Is the King's Speech?
King Charles will begin speaking today around 11.30am, arriving after a procession from Buckingham Palace to Westminster. The monarch's remarks will remain politically neutral, but will outline the government's priority for the next year. Despite the chaos surrounding Starmer's leadership in recent days, the speech will indeed go ahead – and will even if the government collapses.
