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Showing now | lifestyle.

Holly Patrick | Monday 25 December 2023 15:27 GMT

Watch in full: Charles delivers 2023 King’s Speech from Buckingham Palace

King Charles III 's delivered 2023's King's Speech with a Christmas message focused on paying tribute to "selfless" community volunteers and urging the public to protect the environment.

It is Charles's second King's Speech, and was delivered in the Centre Room in Buckingham Palace which leads on to the royal residence’s iconic balcony.

His Majesty also referenced conflicts around the world, saying that he prayed "We can... do all in our power to protect each other."

The living tree seen in today's broadcast will be replanted after the broadcast in a nod to the King's environmental interests.

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What time is the King’s Speech on Christmas Day? When to watch Charles III address on TV and what to expect

It will be the first time a monarch other than elizabeth ii has delivered the televised address, which was first broadcast in 1957, having previously been confined to radio.

King Charles III will give his first Christmas Day speech on Sunday, and is expected to pay tribute to his late mother.

It will be the first time another monarch has delivered the televised address, which was first broadcast in 1957, having previously been confined to radio.

Queen Elizabeth II died on 8 September after a record 70 years and 214 days on the throne . She used her final speech last year to honour her husband, Prince Philip .

Here’s how to watch Charles’ speech, and what to expect.

What time is the King’s Speech?

The King’s Speech has already been recorded. Charles delivered it at Sandringham on 13 December.

It will be aired on Christmas Day at the usual time of 3pm.

The speech is always played on multiple major channels, with BBC One, BBC Two, ITV1 and Sky One all carrying it.

Channel 4 always airs an alternative Christmas message, which this year will be delivered by an AI robot. Past efforts have come from the likes of Edward Snowden, the survivors of the Grenfell Tower disaster, and Danny Dyer.

The King’s Speech will be available to watch on the BBC iPlayer and ITVX catch-up services shortly after it airs.

What will King Charles say?

Little is known about the subject of Charles’ speech, other than that he is all-but certain to pay tribute to the late Queen.

“I’m quite sure he’ll spend as much time talking about his mother as he does about everything else,” historian Jeremy Archer told OK! magazine .

“He’ll talk about how positive she was and how inclusive she was. It will be solemn and reflective, but it will show gratitude for her reign, her life and all the things she’s achieved.”

The King may choose to mention the cost of living crisis , which has affected the lives of tens of millions of people across the UK this year.

Russia’s invasion of Ukraine , which began back in February, is another likely topic.

More from News

Charles has always been a staunch campaigner on climate change , so he may choose to draw attention to this issue in his address.

There is also the question of how he may handle family politics – namely the recent documentary series released by Prince Harry and Meghan Markle on Netflix , which is heavily critical of the Royal Family.

However, experts have predicted the King will disappoint anyone hoping for an acknowledgement of the Duke and Duchess of Sussex’s claims.

Longstanding royal commentator Richard Fitzwilliams told i he thought the “centrepiece” of the speech will be the Queen and “her amazing reign”.

He also predicts the King will follow his mother’s example of paying tribute to certain members of the family. Last year, the Queen spoke fondly of Charles and his wife, Camilla, and also of William and Kate, for their climate activism .

He expects the Prince of Wales will receive a special mention for his environmentalism during this year’s speech.

“I would suggest a tribute to William and the Earthshot prize is very likely,” he said.

Asked if Meghan and Harry will get a mention, the commentator said: “Oh, absolutely not.

“All the indications are the Palace would prefer to ride the current crisis – for that is what it must be called – out without any statement of any sort.”

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Everything we know about the King’s Christmas Day speech this year

It will be the first delivered by a male monarch in almost 70 years

This year was a pretty monumental one in the UK . We saw the death of the late Queen in September, and a new King was crowned following her 70 years on the throne. Since then, we’ve got used to a new national anthem, and the first King Charles III coin was announced two weeks ago .

It will be the King’s coronation in March next year, but before we get to that, there’s another tradition to get ready for. King Charles III will make his first speech on Christmas Day this year, which will mark the second time Charles will address the country following the death of his mother. Here’s everything we know about the King’s 2022 Christmas speech.

When will King Charles III make his speech? 

The King will give his first speech as King at 3pm on Christmas Day. The speech itself was actually pre-recorded by His Majesty on December 13 at Sandringham, but will be shown on the telly on December 25.

Where can I watch it?

King Charles III’s speech will be shown at 3pm on BBC One, BBC Two, ITV One and Sky One. You can also catch up with it afterwards on BBC iPlayer and ITVX. 

How long is the speech?

Definitely set your alarms, because it’ll be over before you know it. The King’s speech lasts just ten minutes from start to finish. 

What will the King say in his speech?

We don’t know exactly what he’ll say, of course, but it’s likely he will speak about his mother, Queen Elizabeth II. Last year, the Queen paid tribute to her late husband Prince Philip, who had died in October 2021. 

Historian Jeremy Archer recently told OK! magazine that the speech will be ‘solemn and reflective’. He said: ‘I’m quite sure he’ll spend as much time talking about his mother as he does about everything else.’

Stay in the loop: sign up to   Out There , our free newsletter about all the best stuff to do across the UK.

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King Charles echoes Queen Elizabeth's words as he gives first Christmas message

King Charles III has delivered his first Christmas message, paying tribute to Queen Elizabeth II, and echoing his late mother's words about grief.

Key points:

• King Charles said Christmas was a "poignant time" for those who have suffered loss
• He said he was deeply touched by public messages of "love and sympathy"
• Video of the Royal Family, including Prince William and Princess Kate, appeared on screen while he spoke

Last Christmas, Queen Elizabeth spoke of her personal pain after losing her husband Prince Philip earlier that year.

In the speech on Sunday, King Charles said Christmas was "a particularly poignant time for all of us who have lost loved ones".

Queen Elizabeth died on September 8 at the age of 96 and was remembered in a state funeral at Westminster Abbey on September 19.

Thanking those who had sent "deeply touching" messages of condolence to him and the Queen Consort Camilla, he said the Royal Family had been shown "love and sympathy".

He also drew upon the late Queen's "faith in God" and "faith in people," saying he shared it "with my whole heart".

Charles delivered his pre-recorded message standing in St George's Chapel in Windsor, where the Queen and Prince Philip are both buried.

Video footage of the royal family, including Prince William and Princess Kate of Wales, appeared on screen while he spoke.

In a separate pre-recorded message broadcast to the nation as part of a Westminster Abbey carol service, the Princess of Wales said the royal family's first Christmas without the late monarch would "feel very different".

In his message, Charles also paid tribute to public sector and healthcare workers, charities, and religious institutions, praising the latter for their work during the UK's ongoing cost of living crisis.

He ended his speech by referring to a previous visit to Bethlehem, the town where Jesus was born, and "the power of light overcoming darkness".

"It is in this life-giving-light and with the true humility that lies in our service to others that I believe we can find hope for the future," Charles said.

"Let us therefore celebrate it together and cherish it always."

His message ended with a rendition of 'O Little Town of Bethlehem,' which Charles used to cite the late Queen's "belief in the power of that light," performed by the choir of St George's Chapel.

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What time is the King's speech on Christmas Day and what channel is it on?

The first festive message of his reign

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Wondering what time the King's speech is on during Christmas Day? We've shared all the need to know details on how to watch.

Tinsel, turkey and all the trimmings - some things are synonymous with Christmas Day, and the annual monarch's speech is one of them. For the last 70 years, Brits and those across the Commonwealth have enjoyed a festive address from her late Majesty. But Christmas 2022 brings with it big change following the death of Queen Elizabeth II .

Now in the new Carolean era , audiences are getting ready to watch King Charles I's Christmas Day message - the first of his reign. For many households this will be a highlight of the Christmas TV schedule , so here's the details on time, channel and where this year's message is filmed.

What time is the King's Speech on Christmas Day?

As is tradition, this year's King's Speech will be broadcast at 3pm GMT on Christmas Day. 2022 marks King Charles' first Christmas Day message and the first address from a King in over 70 years.

The monarch's message to the nation has been televised since 1957, with Queen Elizabeth II recording 69 during her reign. The speech is not live, having instead been pre-recorded by the monarch a few days prior.

A post shared by The Royal Family (@theroyalfamily) A photo posted by on

Several media outlets have claimed that King Charles filmed his speech on December 13. Buckingham Palace have since confirmed that the King recorded his message in the Quire of St George's Chapel, Windsor Castle . He's seen standing next to a Christmas tree which is decorated with sustainable ornaments made of paper, glass and pine cones. 

The chapel is also festively decorated in English foliage such as holly, berried ivy and red skimmia.

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The filming location of Christmas speeches has varied over the years. Some have been previously recorded at Buckingham Palace, seeing as it's the primary residence of the British monarch. Sandringham in Norfolk - where the royals often spend Christmas - has also paid host to previous Christmas speeches. Sandringham is also where King Charles' great-great grandfather George V delivered the first ever Christmas speech to the nation - via radio in 1932.

The Queen's last Christmas Day message - which aired in 2021 - was also filmed from Windsor Castle. Sat behind a desk in the White Drawing Room, the Queen paid tribute to the late Prince Philip in her address, reflecting on Christmas being a difficult time for those who are missing loved ones.

What channel will the King's Speech be on?

This year the King's Speech will be available to watch on four channels: BBC One, BBC Two, ITV1 and Sky One . Starting at 3pm, the address to the nation will last approximately 10 minutes.

Since 1997, the monarch's speech has been shown by all three broadcasters - who take it in turn to record the message. They work on a rota-based system which changes every two years. The edited footage is then shared with the rest of the world's media so they too can broadcast it in other territories on Christmas Day.

What will the King's speech be about?

Buckingham Palace never reveal the contents of the Queen or King's speech in advance of the broadcast. However, it's thought that this year's address will almost certainly pay tribute to Queen Elizabeth II who passed away on September 8, 2022.

After his speech, the broadcast will follow with a Christmas carol and the National Anthem performed by the St George's Chapel choir.

Jeremy Archer , author of A Royal Christmas agrees, sharing his thoughts with OK! magazine on how Charles will honour his late mother. "He’ll talk about how positive she was and how inclusive she was," he says. "It will be solemn and reflective, but it will show gratitude for her reign, her life and all the things she’s achieved."

Royal commentator Richard Fitzwilliams agrees that The Queen will be at the heart of Charles' Christmas Day message. He told The National News : "I think it will be a very professional job, especially since he is well aware he will be the subject of such fascination. It is the first one. 

"In a year that will obviously see the queen’s death and the magnificent funeral at the centre of the speech, there is no doubt he will pay a very moving tribute to her."

Ingrid Seward , editor of Majesty magazine is expecting a picth-perfect performance from the monarch in his first Christmas Day address. "Over many years of public speaking the king has acquired the delivery of a professional actor and I have no doubt it will be a masterly performance," she wrote in the latest issue of Majesty .

Who writes the King's speech?

King Charles I is expected to write his own speech shared at Christmas - much like his late mother. Queen Elizabeth II was known for writing her own festive message with support from her advisors.

The first royal message was 251 words long, though Queen Elizabeth II's speeches were lengthier - averaging 656 words. After the Christmas message has been broadcast, the full transcript of the speech is then available to read on the official Royal Family website .

The UK and Commonwealth have only witnessed one address from King Charles I since taking to the throne. Airing on September 9, 2022 - the day after Queen Elizabeth II died - Charles addressed the nation as the new monarch, sharing in their grief at the Queen's passing.

He concluded his speech: "And to my darling Mama, as you begin your last great journey to join my dear late Papa, I want simply to say this: thank you.

"Thank you for your love and devotion to our family and to the family of nations you have served so diligently all these years. May ‘flights of Angels sing thee to thy rest’."

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Emily Stedman is the former Features Editor for GoodTo covering all things TV, entertainment, royal, lifestyle, health and wellbeing. Boasting an encyclopaedic knowledge on all things TV, celebrity and royals, career highlights include working at HELLO! Magazine and as a royal researcher to Diana biographer Andrew Morton on his book Meghan: A Hollywood Princess . In her spare time, Emily can be found eating her way around London, swimming at her local Lido or curled up on the sofa binging the next best Netflix show.

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NEWS... BUT NOT AS YOU KNOW IT

The King’s first Christmas Day speech in full

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King Charles gave his first Christmas Day speech as a monarch, and here is exactly what he said.

The King used his speech to sympathise with families struggling with the cost-of-living crisis and praise individuals, charities and faith groups supporting those in need.

Charles spoke about the ‘great anxiety and hardship’ experienced by many trying to ‘pay their bills and keep their families fed and warm’ during his televised message.

It also featured footage of a foodbank and other scenes of meals being distributed to the homeless.

The country is grappling with an economic crisis due in part to the war in Ukraine and the monarch also praised volunteers, paying tribute to the ‘wonderfully kind people’ who donated food or their time.

Charles delivered his historic Christmas broadcast standing in the quire of St George’s Chapel, mirroring the late Queen’s 1999 festive address.

King Charles first speech in full

‘I am standing here in this exquisite Chapel of St George at Windsor Castle, so close to where my beloved mother, the late Queen, is laid to rest with my dear father.

‘I am reminded of the deeply touching letters, cards and messages which so many of you have sent my wife and myself and I cannot thank you enough for the love and sympathy you have shown our whole family.

‘Christmas is a particularly poignant time for all of us who have lost loved ones.

‘We feel their absence at every familiar turn of the season and remember them in each cherished tradition.

‘In the much-loved carol O Little Town Of Bethlehem we sing of how ‘in thy dark streets shineth the everlasting light’.

‘My mother’s belief in the power of that light was an essential part of her faith in God, but also her faith in people and it is one which I share with my whole heart.

‘It is a belief in the extraordinary ability of each person to touch, with goodness and compassion, the lives of others, and to shine a light in the world around them.

‘This is the essence of our community and the very foundation of our society.

‘We see it in the selfless dedication of our Armed Forces and Emergency Services who work tirelessly to keep us all safe, and who performed so magnificently as we mourned the passing of our late Queen.

‘We see it in our health and social care professionals, our teachers and indeed all those working in public service, whose skill and commitment are at the heart of our communities.

‘And at this time of great anxiety and hardship, be it for those around the world facing conflict, famine or natural disaster, or for those at home finding ways to pay their bills and keep their families fed and warm, we see it in the humanity of people throughout our nations and the Commonwealth who so readily respond to the plight of others.

‘I particularly want to pay tribute to all those wonderfully kind people who so generously give food or donations, or that most precious commodity of all, their time, to support those around them in greatest need, together with the many charitable organizations which do such extraordinary work in the most difficult circumstances.

‘Our churches, synagogues, mosques, temples and gurdwaras, have once again united in feeding the hungry, providing love and support throughout the year.

‘Such heartfelt solidarity is the most inspiring expression of loving our neighbour as our self.

‘The Prince and Princess of Wales recently visited Wales, shining a light on practical examples of this community spirit.

‘Some years ago, I was able to fulfil a life-long wish to visit Bethlehem and the Church of the Nativity.

‘There, I went down into the Chapel of the Manger and stood in silent reverence by the Silver Star that is inlaid on the floor and marks the place of our Lord Jesus Christ’s birth.

‘It meant more to me than I can possibly express to stand on that spot where, as the Bible tells us, ‘The light that has come into the world’ was born.

‘While Christmas is, of course, a Christian celebration, the power of light overcoming darkness is celebrated across the boundaries of faith and belief.

‘So, whatever faith you have, or whether you have none, it is in this life-giving light, and with the true humility that lies in our service to others, that I believe we can find hope for the future.

‘Let us therefore celebrate it together, and cherish it always.

‘With all my heart, I wish each of you a Christmas of peace, happiness and everlasting light.’

It followed his mother’s well-established template, a personal reflection on the year, touching on current issues and with a Christian framework.

The pre-recorded message began with Charles reflecting on how he was standing ‘so close to where my beloved mother, the late Queen, is laid to rest with my dear father’ in the King George VI Memorial Chapel, and he thanked the public for the ‘love and sympathy’ expressed in cards and messages of condolence.

He also described how the festive period was a ‘poignant time’ for bereaved families, adding ‘We feel their absence at every familiar turn of the season and remember them in each cherished tradition’.

Charles said he shared the late Queen’s ‘faith in people’ who can touch the lives of others with ‘goodness and compassion’, something he described as the ‘essence of our community and the very foundation of our society’.

These qualities were reflected in the ‘selfless dedication’ of the Armed Forces, health and social care professionals, teachers and all those who work in public service.

Footage was shown of the Armed Forces and emergency services at work, from soldiers carrying sandbags to a speeding ambulance, followed by doctors and nurses on a ward and care workers in a home.

MORE : When was the last time we had a King’s Speech instead of a Queen’s speech on Christmas Day?

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He recognised those other faiths when he said in his Christmas message: ‘Our churches, synagogues, mosques, temples and gurdwaras, have once again united in feeding the hungry, providing love and support throughout the year.

‘Such heartfelt solidarity is the most inspiring expression of loving our neighbour as our self.’

Among the collection of video clips showing the King at official events, Charles was seen wearing a Sikh rumal, or handkerchief, on his head as a mark of respect during a visit to the Guru Nanak Gurdwara in Luton earlier this month, and receiving condolences from the public during a walkabout outside Buckingham Palace in September.

The Christmas broadcast, written by the King and lasting eight minutes, ended with a message for the religious and those with no beliefs: ‘While Christmas is, of course, a Christian celebration, the power of light overcoming darkness is celebrated across the boundaries of faith and belief.

‘Let us therefore celebrate it together, and cherish it always.’

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King’s Speech 2023: What time is it on Christmas day and how to watch

The royal tradition allows the sovereign head of state to reflect on the year and values of the nation in a ten minute pre-recorded speech

• 10:12, 24 Dec 2023

King Charles ' second Christmas Day speech as monarch is nearly upon us. Royal fans and critics alike are waiting to hear how he will reflect on the year which has passed.

Last year, it was King Charles' first King's Christmas Day speech in nearly seventy years, following the death of Queen Elizabeth II . He said: "Christmas is a particularly poignant time for all of us who have lost loved ones. We feel their absence at every familiar turn of the season and remember them in each cherished tradition."

Ever since the first festive address of this kind was delivered in 1932, the annual tradition has become a key event for families across the country, who gather together to remind themselves of what has come and what to look forward to in the next year.

Here's what you can expect from the 2023 speech, plus how and where to watch it.

What time is the King's speech?

King Charles' festive broadcast is set to air on Monday, December 25.

The speech is due to be broadcast at 3pm on Christmas Day in keeping with tradition.

It will be shown on BBC One, BBC Two, ITV , and Sky News. On BBC One, the broadcast will be followed by a screening of Toy Story 4. Meanwhile, In For a Christmas Penny will follow the broadcast on ITV.

For those looking to watch online, the Christmas Address has also been streamed on the Royal Family YouTube Channel and Facebook page in the past.

What to expect

The contents of the King's Speech aren't known yet and won't be revealed until broadcast. However, the Christmas address typically reflects on the events of the year.

It's expected that King Charles III will speak about his coronation, alongside the issues affecting the UK and broader global events, before looking ahead to 2024.

How many people will watch the King's speech?

Millions of Brits are expected to watch the King's speech on Christmas Day. Last year, King Charles’s Christmas Day message was the most watched address by a monarch on record, viewing figures have shown.

Around 10.6 million tuned in for the eight-minute briefing. Back in 2020, the Queen's speech was crowned the most viewed programme of the day after 8.2 million people turned in. Meanwhile, the 2021 version brought in a staggering 9.1 million viewers - again securing the top spot.

What will be different this year?

This year's message from King Charles will reflect his green credential by including a living Christmas tree for the first time.

It was covered with “natural and sustainable decorations, including hand turned wood, dried oranges, brown glass, pine cones and paper” and it will be replanted.

There were no clues to content of Charles second Christmas address, recorded in the Palace’s Centre Room, part of the private quarters and near the balcony where he celebrated his Coronation.

Charles, 75, is said to have written the 10-minute speech without the help of his advisers.

MORE ON ITV BBC1 Christmas The Queen Royal Family

How to watch King Charles' Christmas speech online right now — start time and channels

It's time to open King Charles III's first Christmas Day speech

Today, King Charles III's first Christmas Day speech will air online and on TV networks, not only to the United Kingdom, but echoing out throughout the world. An annual tradition, the speech will touch upon the events of this past year, and the topics of community and faith, as is tradition.

King Charles III's Christmas Day speech will air at 3 p.m. GMT / 10 a.m. ET / 7 a.m. PT, and 2 a.m. AEDT on the 26th in Australia. Watch from anywhere with ExpressVPN

King Charles will likely use this speech as an opportunity to honour his mother, the late Queen Elizabeth III. He first addressed the nation as king on September 9th. 

This will mark the first time a male monarch delivered this annual televised Christmas Day address.

The address, which has already been recorded and edited down for time, was recorded on December 13th, at Sandringham, the private royal residence in Norfolk.

The speech, which will last 10 minutes, will also be available for replay via multiple means, which we'll get to below.

How to watch King Charles' Christmas Day speech from anywhere on Earth

Just because BBC, Sky and ITV aren't available everywhere doesn't mean you can't watch the King's Christmas speech online if you're away from home. Watching along with the rest of the internet can be easy these days. With the right VPN (virtual private network), you can stream the show from wherever you go.

Not sure which VPN is the right one for you? We've tested many different services and our pick for the  best VPN  overall is  ExpressVPN , which offers superb speeds and excellent customer service.

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How to watch the King's Christmas Day speech in the UK

King Charles III's Christmas Day speech airs at 3 p.m. GMT on BBC One, BBC Two, ITV One and Sky One. Afterwards, it will be available on BBC iPlayer and ITVX.

How to watch King Charles' Christmas Day speech in the US

There are likely more than a few ways to watch King Charles' Christmas speech online in the U.S.. Expect it to stream from the Royal Family's official YouTube and Twitter pages, either live or after the fact.

C-Span will have the live stream as well, but if you cut the cord, that's only available on DirecTV Stream . ABC News Live should have the broadcast, and you can find it on fuboTV and Hulu with Live TV .

Of course, those visiting the U.S. who want to watch it live with our friends in the U.K. will need a VPN service such as ExpressVPN to log in back home to use BBC iPlayer .

Can you watch watch King Charles' Christmas Day speech in Canada?

It's unclear which channels will have the broadcast in Canada and Australia. But, as noted above, the Royal Family's official YouTube and Twitter pages are expected to offer the speech in one form or another. 

Those in Canada and Australia can also use a VPN service such as ExpressVPN to log in back home on the services they already pay for.

Henry is a managing editor at Tom’s Guide covering streaming media, laptops and all things Apple, reviewing devices and services for the past seven years. Prior to joining Tom's Guide, he reviewed software and hardware for TechRadar Pro, and interviewed artists for Patek Philippe International Magazine. He's also covered the wild world of professional wrestling for Cageside Seats, interviewing athletes and other industry veterans.

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Read the full transcript of King Charles III's Christmas message

King Charles III delivered his first Christmas message as monarch on Sunday.

The pre-recorded speech, which aired at 15:00 GMT (10:00 EST) on Christmas Day, saw the new king honour the legacy of his late mother, Queen Elizabeth II, who died on Sept. 8.

• King Charles salutes late Queen Elizabeth II, public workers in speech

Charles delivered the message from the historic St. George's Chapel at Windsor Castle in England, where both of his parents and many other royals are buried. It was the first televised royal Christmas address not to be delivered by Queen Elizabeth, who initially did so 1957.

Here is a full transcript of King Charles' speech:

"I'm standing here in this exquisite chapel of St. George at Windsor Castle, so close to where my beloved mother the late Queen is laid to rest with my dear father. I'm reminded of the deeply touching letters, cards and messages which so many of you have sent my wife and myself, and I cannot thank you enough for the love and sympathy you have shown our whole family.

• Royal Dispatch newsletter: Sign up for exclusive insights on the monarchy

Christmas is a particularly poignant time for all of us who have lost loved ones. We feel their absence at every familiar turn of the season, and remember them in each cherished tradition.

In the much-loved carol 'O little town of Bethlehem,' we sing of how, 'in thy dark streets shineth the everlasting light.' My mother's belief in the power of that light was an essential part of her faith in God, but also have faith in people, and it is one which I share with my whole heart. It is a belief in the extraordinary ability of each person to touch with goodness and compassion the lives of others and to shine a light in the world around them.

This is the essence of our community, and the very foundation of our society. We see it in the selfless dedication of our armed forces and emergency services, who work tirelessly to keep us all safe, and who perform so magnificently as we mourn the passing of our late Queen. We see it in our health and social care professionals, our teachers, and indeed all those working in public service whose skill and commitment are at the heart of our communities. And at this time of great anxiety and hardship, be it for those around the world facing conflict, famine or natural disaster, or for those at home finding ways to pay their bills to keep their families fed and warm, we see it in the humanity of people throughout our nations and the Commonwealth, who so readily respond to the plight of others.

I particularly want to pay tribute to all those wonderfully kind people who so generously give food or donations, or that most precious commodity of all, their time, to support those around them in greatest need. Together with the many charitable organizations, which do such extraordinary work in the most difficult circumstances, our churches, synagogues, mosques, temples, and gurdwaras have once again united in feeding the hungry, providing love and support throughout the year. Such heartfelt solidarity is the most inspiring expression of loving our neighbour as ourself. The Prince and Princess of Wales recently visited Wales, shining a light of practical examples of this community spirit.

Some years ago, I was able to fulfill a lifelong wish to visit Bethlehem and the Church of the Nativity. There I went down into the chapel of the manger, and stood in silent reverence by the silver star that is inlaid on the floor and marks the place of our Lord Jesus Christ's birth. It meant more to me than I can possibly express, to stand on that spot where as the Bible tells us, the light that has come into the world was born.

While Christmas is of course a Christian celebration, the power of light overcoming darkness is celebrated across the boundaries of faith and belief. So whatever faith you have, or whether you have none, it is in this life-giving light and with the true humility that lies in our service to others, that I believe we can find hope for the future. Let us therefore celebrate it together and cherish it always. With all my heart I wish each of you a Christmas of peace, happiness, and everlasting light."

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What time is the King's Speech? How to watch King Charles' first Christmas Broadcast

King Charles III will be making his first-ever televised Christmas Day Speech in 2022 - here's everything you need to know

• 09:00, 25 DEC 2022

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King Charles will make his first-ever Christmas Day Speech on Sunday, December 25. The Christmas Broadcast is an intrinsic part of Christmas Day festivities having taken place since 1932 when the first one was delivered by the late Queen's grandfather George V.

And while the 2022 address will be King Charles' first festive broadcast, it will also be the first time a male Monarch has delivered a televised Christmas speech. The last time a King delivered a speech on Christmas Day was over the radio in 1951.

This is because the first televised message wasn't broadcast live until 1957. It allowed viewers to see The Queen in her own residences, decorated for Christmas like many homes across the world for the first time.

Read more: All the ITV dramas coming this winter from Nolly, to Without Sin and You & Me

While the exact details of the King's speech have been kept under wraps, it is expected he will honour his mother and her incredible 70-year reign in his broadcast after Her Majesty passed away on September 8, 2022.

What time is the King's Speech?

King Charles III will make his first Christmas Day speech as Monarch in 2022 and, as is tradition, the broadcast will air at 3pm on Christmas Day.

The speech will last for 10 minutes, ending at 3:10pm. It is not a live broadcast, having been recorded earlier this month.

The King's Speech will be available to watch at 3pm on BBC One, BBC Two, ITV One and Sky One on Christmas Day. The speech will be available to watch on iPlayer and ITVX after it is first broadcast.

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King’s Speech 2022: Charles III’s first Christmas address - what time, where is it on and what he might say?

On December 25, King Charles III will deliver his inaugural Christmas address to the nation - the first time a King has ever delivered a televised speech on television. The world will be watching. The royal tradition allows the sovereign head of state to reflect on the current year and reinstate national values.

In the speech, King Charles will be expected to pay tribute to his late mother and Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II who passed away earlier this year. Last Christmas, Her Majesty used the time to commemorate the loss of her husband Prince Phillip.

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Here’s everything you need to know about King Charles III’s speech on Christmas Day, including what time the address is and what to expect.

When will King Charles III’s Christmas speech be broadcast on TV?

The monarch’s Christmas speech will be broadcast at 3pm on Sunday, December 25 on BBC One and BBC iPlayer. The time hasn’t changed since King George V delivered his Christmas speech via radio broadcast in 1932.

What to expect from King Charles III’s Christmas speech?

As usual, the content of the sovereign’s Christmas speech is confidential but it is likely a bulk of the broadcast will be used to pay tribute to his late mother Queen Elizabeth II, who served as Queen of the United Kingdom from February 6 1952 to September 8 2022.

Historian and author Jeremy Archer told OK! magazine : “He’ll talk about how positive she was and how inclusive she was. It will be solemn and reflective, but it will show gratitude for her reign, her life and all the things she’s achieved.”

During his reflection on the year as a whole, King Charles III may touch upon the cost of living crisis, the Russo-Ukrainian war, climate change and COP27. While many will be eager to see if Harry and Megan receive a mention, it’s likely King Charles will keep it formal.

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King Charles Continues Royal Tradition with His Second Christmas Speech — Here's What He Said

The King encouraged service as he acknowledged that it is a "time of real hardship for many" during the holiday broadcast

Stephanie Petit is a Royals Editor, Writer and Reporter at PEOPLE.

Jonathan Brady - WPA Pool /Getty

King Charles  is at the center of a royal holiday tradition for the second time.

Continuing the tradition of the British monarch giving a speech that is broadcast on Christmas Day, King Charles' pre-recorded address was shown at 3 p.m. local time on Monday. This year, the King delivered the message from Buckingham Palace.

King Charles, 75, centered his speech on service to others as he acknowledged that it is a difficult time for many families.

"Over this past year, my heart has been warmed by countless examples of the imaginative ways in which people are caring for one another — going the extra mile to help those around them simply because they know it is the right thing to do: at work and at home; within and across communities," he said. "My wife and I were delighted when hundreds of representatives of that selfless army of people — volunteers who serve their communities in so many ways and with such distinction — were able to join us in Westminster Abbey for the coronation earlier this year. They are an essential backbone of our society. Their presence meant so much to us both and emphasized the meaning of coronation itself: above all, a call to us all to serve one another; to love and care for all. Service also lies at the heart of the Christmas story — the birth of Jesus who came to serve the whole world, showing us by his own example how to love our neighbor as ourselves."

The monarch continued, "Throughout the year, my family have witnessed how people of all ages are making a difference to their communities. This is all the more important at a time of real hardship for many when we need to build on existing ways to support others less fortunate than ourselves."

King Charles also mentioned it is a time of "increasingly tragic conflict around the world."

"I pray that we can also do all in our power to protect each other," he said. "The words of Jesus seem more than ever relevant: 'Do to others as you would have them do to you.' Such values are universal, drawing together our Abrahamic family of 5 religions, and other belief systems, across the Commonwealth and wider world. They remind us to imagine ourselves in the shoes of our neighbors, and to seek their good as we would our own."

King Charles concluded, "So on this Christmas Day my heart and my thanks go to all who are serving one another; all who are caring for our common home; and all who see and seek the good of others, not least the friend we do not yet know. In this way, we bring out the best in ourselves. I wish you a Christmas of peace on Earth and good will to all, today and always."

For the first time this year , King Charles delivered his remarks beside a living tree, marking his ongoing environmental efforts. According to Buckingham Palace, the Christmas tree is decorated with "natural and sustainable decorations," with some highlights including hand-turned wood, pinecones, brown glass, dried oranges and paper. It will be replanted.

Samir Hussein/WireImage

The tradition of the monarch's Christmas message was started by King Charles' great-grandfather King George V in 1932. While the speech was first broadcast over radio, Queen Elizabeth  appeared in the first televised broadcast in 1957. "She was a one-take wonder — she was extraordinary," said a former palace staffer.

For many Britains (including the royal family!), it is a staple of their holiday to gather around the TV to watch the speech.

However, the annual broadcast did not take place in 1936 (when King Edward VIII abdicated), 1938 (when King George VI did not give an address) and 1969 (when Queen Elizabeth opted for a written message instead after feeling that between Charles' investiture as the Prince of Wales and the documentary Royal Family , there had been enough television appearances for one year).

King Charles gave his first Christmas address last year just months after the death of his mother, and much of his speech centered around Queen Elizabeth's memory.

"I am standing here in this exquisite Chapel of St. George at Windsor Castle, so close to where my beloved mother, the late Queen, is laid to rest with my dear father," the King said in the 2022 speech. "I am reminded of the deeply touching letters, cards and messages which so many of you have sent my wife and myself, and I cannot thank you enough for the love and sympathy you have shown our whole family."

He continued, "Christmas is a particularly poignant time for all of us who have lost loved ones. We feel their absence at every familiar turn of the season and remember them in each cherished tradition."

Can't get enough of PEOPLE's Royals coverage?  Sign up for our free Royals newsletter  to get the latest updates on Kate Middleton, Meghan Markle and more!

King Charles continued his speech, "In the much-loved carol 'O Little Town of Bethlehem,' we sing of how 'in thy dark streets shineth the everlasting light.' My mother's belief in the power of that light was an essential part of her faith in God, but also her faith in people — and it is one which I share with my whole heart. It is a belief in the extraordinary ability of each person to touch, with goodness and compassion, the lives of others, and to shine a light in the world around them. This is the essence of our community and the very foundation of our society."

He then praised the "selfless dedication" of those in the armed forces, emergency personnel, healthcare workers and public services professionals such as teachers.

"I particularly want to pay tribute to all those wonderfully kind people who so generously give food or donations, or that most precious commodity of all — their time — to support those around them in greatest need, together with the many charitable organizations which do such extraordinary work in the most difficult circumstances," he said.

On Monday, King Charles and  Queen Camilla  led the royal family in their annual tradition of going to church on Christmas Day. They attended the service at the Church of St. Mary Magdalene in Norfolk, near the royal residence of Sandringham .

The British royals traditionally gather at Sandringham each Christmas. On December 24, they have afternoon tea before exchanging inexpensive gag gifts . After their church outing on Christmas, they head back to Sandringham House for a traditional feast of turkey before watching the monarch's Christmas speech broadcast on TV.

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Blog The Education Hub

https://educationhub.blog.gov.uk/2024/07/18/the-kings-speech-2024-what-does-it-mean-for-education/

The King’s Speech 2024: What does it mean for education?

During the State Opening of Parliament on Wednesday 17 July, the King set out the government’s priorities for the coming months.

This included commitments relating to education, including children’s social care, schools , and further education .

Together, these important changes will help to break down barriers to opportunity, and drive high and rising standards in schools, to create better life chances for everyone.

Here, we explain what the King’s Speech means for young people, parents and the education sector.

You can read more about the King’s Speech and how it works on Gov.uk .

What was announced for education?

A Children’s Wellbeing Bill and a Skills England Bill were announced in the King’s Speech.

A bill is a proposed law which is introduced into Parliament. After being debated, passed through Parliament, and receiving Royal Assent, it becomes law.

What is included in the Children’s Wellbeing Bill?

The Children’s Wellbeing Bill will put children and their wellbeing at the centre of the education and children’s social care systems, and make changes to ensure children are safe, healthy, happy and treated fairly.

There are a range of changes which the government will aim to pass through the bill, to remove barriers to opportunity and make sure that the school system is fair for every child, no matter their background.

These include, but are not limited to:

• Making sure there are free breakfast clubs in every primary school.
• Limiting the number of branded uniform items that a school can require, to bring down costs for parents.
• Requiring local authorities to have and maintain Children Not in School registers and provide support to home-educating parents, to ensure fewer children slip under the radar.
• Giving Ofsted more powers to investigate unregistered schools and tackle patterns of poor care in children’s homes to keep children safe.

What is included in the Skills England Bill?

Skills England will bring together businesses, providers, unions and other bodies to try to boost skills training and tackle skills shortages to support sustained economic growth.

A Skills England Bill will work towards this, simplifying the skills system by transferring responsibilities from the Institute for Apprenticeships and Technical Education (IfATE) to a new Skills England organisation, to make skills sector more efficient.

When will the education bills be introduced?

Before becoming law, the education bills will be debated by Parliament.

Both bills are planned to be introduced in the first session of Parliament.

You can read more about how a bill becomes law on Gov.uk .

You may also be interested in:

• Letter to the education workforce from Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson

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King’s Speech outlines government plans at state opening of parliament — as it happened

Key moments.

The King outlined the new Labour government’s plans at the state opening of parliament today.

Sir Keir Starmer promised to “take the brakes off Britain” with a legislative agenda focused on growth and improving living standards.

Sketch: Peers watching their own abolition

Tom Peck gives his analysis of the King’s Speech, which included a proposal to abolish hereditary peers in the House of Lords.

Read the full story: The day hereditary peers watched their own abolition

Analysis: Labour’s key proposals explained

Sir Keir Starmer has announced plans to build more houses and to nationalise railways. There are also proposals to crack down on people smugglers, and the prime minister will revive Rishi Sunak’s ban on anyone born after 2009 from ever buying cigarettes.

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A reform of the House of Lords is also on the cards.

Read the full story: What was in the King’s Speech? Labour’s key plans explained

Ed Davey: Carers’ voices must be heard

Sir Ed Davey used his first speech in the Commons since the general election to urge the government to reform social care.

The Liberal Democrat leader spoke of his own experience of being a carer during the campaign, and on Wednesday he told MPs: “Caring has been in the shadows for far too long. Let this be the parliament when carers’ voices are heard, when we become the caring nation.

“Because caring is actually people doing extraordinary things every day for the ones that they love, often in the face of difficult circumstances, fiscal challenges, no breaks, mountains of paperwork, countless appointments, endless phone calls, trying to navigate a broken system that is simply not designed to work for carers.

“So we on these benches will do our very best to get a fair deal for carers, whether on issues like carers’ allowance, or the big challenge of fixing social care, so that our loved ones get the support they need when and where they need it.”

Starmer says ‘snake-oil charm of populism’ is a dead end

Sir Keir Starmer warned that the “snake-oil charm of populism” is a “dead end” for the UK.

He told the Commons: “This government has been elected to deliver nothing less than national renewal — to stop the chaos of the past 14 years, turn the page on an era of politics as noisy performance and return it to public service and start the work of rebuilding our country.

“A determined rebuilding, a patient rebuilding, a calm rebuilding, a rejection in this complicated and volatile world of those who can only offer the easy answer — the snake oil charm of populism.

“As the last 14 years has shown, that road is a dead end for this country. It does nothing to fix our foundations and the British people have rejected it as they have throughout our history.”

Starmer said: “We are all responsible for the tone and standards we set.”

Truss accuses officials of ‘untrue political attacks’

Liz Truss has accused officials of breaching the civil service code after her mini-budget was referred to in government documents about the King’s Speech.

The former prime minister complained that references to the “mistakes” of her economic policy, which unleashed chaos in the markets and tanked the pound, were “untrue political attacks”.

She has written to the head of the civil service, Simon Case, asking him to “urgently investigate how such material came to be included in this document, ensure suitable admonishment for those responsible and the immediate removal of such political material from the version of the document on gov.uk ”.

In a briefing made available online after Charles’s address, the government had referred to the “disaster” of Truss’s radical tax-cutting agenda and cites the Institute for Government think tank as saying the mini-budget was “a lesson in how not to do fiscal policy”.

Starmer reflects on Trump assassination attempt

Sir Keir Starmer said he had shared his “revulsion” over the attempt on Donald Trump’s life with the former president when the pair spoke on Sunday.

The prime minister said: “Last time this address took place and I stood at that despatch box, I could see for the first time that the new plaque, now behind me, commemorating the memory of Sir David Amess. And I know how hard that loss was for members on the opposite benches.

“And now, standing on this side, I can see for the first time in front of me the plaque to our dear friend Jo Cox, with her words that catch the air of this chamber even more at a moment like this: ‘more in common’.

“So while our thoughts at this time are of course with President Trump and the American people, we cannot think that this is something that only happens elsewhere.

“We must heed the words of President Biden to lower the temperature of our democracy, work across our disagreements and find each other’s common decency.”

Starmer pays tribute to Southgate

Sir Keir Starmer has paid tribute to Gareth Southgate, who resigned as the England’s men’s football team manager .

The prime minister told the Commons he wanted “to congratulate the England football team for their achievements in the Euros, something the leader of the opposition and I were talking about this morning”.

He added to laughter: “Yes, the trophy eluded us again, but the team can be proud of another exceptional performance, something I’m sure the whole house will be only too pleased to recognise.”

Sunak accuses Reeves of painting a ‘bleak picture’

Rishi Sunak has accused Rachel Reeves of painting a bleak economic picture when “this is not exactly what the facts say”.

Sunak, the former prime minister, said he had left an economy which was already on an upward trajectory.

He told the Commons: “I understand well that the chancellor is keen to paint as bleak a picture as possible, but I would just gently point out that this is not exactly what the facts say.

“Inflation at 2 per cent, unemployment 4 per cent, and the fastest-growing economy in the G7 so far this year. The party opposite has inherited an economy that is already on an upward trajectory.”

Starmer has ‘tapped into public’s desire for change’

Rishi Sunak said that Sir Keir Starmer had “successfully tapped into the public’s desire for change”.

Speaking in the Commons, Sunak congratulated the prime minister on his “decisive victory” but warned: “They must now deliver change, and we on this side of the House will hold them accountable for delivering on the commitments that they made to the British people.”

Sunak said the Conservatives would “not oppose for the sake of it, but when we disagree with the government it is our responsibility as the opposition to say so”.

He added: “What will guide us will be our principles. Sound public finances, a belief that people know how to spend their own money better than governments do, that private enterprise not state intervention is the key to delivering growth and prosperity, public services that work for those who need them, an education system that gives everyone the best start in life, secure borders, and a strong national defence.”

Sunak praises popular Labour MP and the King

Rishi Sunak said Peter Dowd, the MP for Bootle who delivered the humble address, might be “the only person who can persuade Kim Jong-un of the benefits of democracy” due to his popularity.

The Conservative leader said Dowd is the “most popular constituency MP”, adding: “Enjoying the biggest majority of any member of this place and in a recent election he even won an astonishing 84 per cent of the vote.

“He might be the only person who can persuade Kim Jong-un of the benefits of democracy, although the people’s republic of Bootle doesn’t quite have the same ring to it.”

Sunak earlier paid tribute to the King, telling MPs: “It is typical of his dedication to duty that despite the medical challenges he has recently faced he was here today to open Parliament and will travel to the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting in Samoa and Australia this autumn.

“The King is a true model of public service.”

Sunak: ‘Life comes at you fast’

Rishi Sunak has joked that “life comes at you fast” on the government benches as he spoke in the Commons as the leader of the opposition for the first time.

The former prime minister said he was wondering if he could be considered an “elder statesman” at the age of 44.

He said: “On the government benches life comes at you fast. Soon you might be fortunate enough to be tapped on the shoulder and be offered a junior ministerial role, then you’ll find yourself attending cabinet, then in the cabinet and then when the prime minister’s position becomes untenable you might end up being called to the highest office.

“And before you know it you have a bright future behind you and you’re left wondering whether you can credibly be an elder statesman at the age of 44.”

Dianne Abbott praised as ‘trailblazer’

Florence Eshalomi, the Labour (co-op) MP for Vauxhall and Camberwell Green, described the work of Diane Abbott as “trailblazing” as she welcomed plans for new equalities legislation in the King’s Speech.

Eshalomi said: “Seeing her in the media, making the voice of black women heard in Parliament, gave me the confidence that I could stand here and make sure that people in my community could have a voice in the decisions that impact them. We stand on your shoulders, and we respect and salute you.”

The MP, who also praised Harriet Harman, said: “Their trailblazing examples mean that those of us elected today face far fewer challenges in representing our communities, and we have more friends to go through those challenges with.”

Inclusion of Hillsborough Law welcomed in humble address

Peter Dowd, the Labour MP, said “justice and respect” had finally been served as he welcomed the inclusion of the Hillsborough Law in the King’s Speech.

As he moved the humble address in the Commons, the MP for Bootle said: “I want to pay particular attention to the inclusion of what has become known as a Hillsborough Law in the gracious speech.

“I also want to thank the many individuals, families, survivors and the coalition of other organisations who have campaigned selflessly for decades to achieve this outcome, including members of this House.

“It means so much to the families of the victims of those who died and the survivors from our city region and beyond that the Government will be fulfilling its promise to ensure a duty of candour on public services, justice and respect at last.”

The law is expected to introduce a “legal duty of candour” for public servants in an effort to tackle the “defensive culture” highlighted in the Hillsborough and infected blood inquiries.

Earlier in his speech, Dowd said he had been “made up” to be asked to do the humble address and joked that this was the only thing he could claim to be the first in his family to achieve.

Speaker warns MPs to respect one another

The Commons Speaker has warned MPs to treat each other with respect in the Commons.

Sir Lindsay Hoyle said: “If a member falls short of the standards expected of us all there are ways of dealing with that.

“But not by accusations made as sideswipes during questions or debates. If we fail to treat each other with respect in debate this diminishes our worth and also risks raising the temperature of discussions outside this place, particularly on social media — which already too often descends into online abuse against honourable members.

“My job is to look after all members. So please, if we show respect to each other here, I believe the public should also show respect to members. Let us get it right and work together.”

Analysis: Labour’s proposals explained

Sir Keir Starmer has big plans for housebuilding, railways and young voters. There are also proposals to crack down on people smugglers and the prime minister will revive Rishi Sunak’s ban on anyone born after 2009 from ever buying cigarettes.

A reform of the House of Lords is also on the cards, with Starmer aiming to improve the diversity of parliament’s upper chamber.

Watch: Key points from the King’s Speech

Sunak and starmer begin debate on king’s speech.

Sir Lindsay Hoyle is delivering an introductory statement in the House of Commons as MPs prepare to debate the King’s Speech.

Rishi Sunak, the leader of the opposition, will begin the debate by delivering his verdict on the government’s policy blueprint.

The prime minister will then respond to Sunak.

Vape sales reforms could follow smoking ban

Labour has revived plans to phase out smoking and impose restrictions on the sale and marketing of vapes to children.

The move, which has the backing of scores of health campaigners and charities, was introduced by the last Conservative government but was shelved after the election was called.

The Tobacco and Vapes Bill progressively increases the age at which people can buy tobacco so that future generations will never legally be able to do so. It prevents anyone born after January 1, 2009 from legally smoking by gradually raising the age at which tobacco can be bought.

The bill also paves the way for reforms to vaping sales and their branding to reduce their appeal to children and young people. Flavours such as bubble gum and candy floss could also face curbs as research shows children prefer them to other flavours such as menthol.

Labour sidesteps lowering voting age in speech

The King’s Speech remained silent on Labour’s plans to lower the voting age to 16.

Sir Keir Starmer had earlier indicated that was because the priority for his administration was putting forward measures to secure economic growth.

Lucy Powell, the government’s leader of the Commons, was asked about the plan following the King’s Speech. Asked if 16 year olds will be able to vote at the next election, Powell told BBC Radio 5 Live: “I hope so.”

Nationalising railways ‘will increase costs’

A bill to bring train operation into public ownership has been described by private rail companies as a “political not a practical solution”.

Rail Partners, which represents private sector train operators, said legislation announced in the King’s Speech will “increase costs”.

The Railways Bill will ensure that appointing a public sector train operator as existing contracts expire will be the default position rather than a last resort.

The government said that this will avoid the need to pay compensation to current operators, and will save taxpayers millions of pounds each year that are paid out in fees to private train companies. It added that the first contracts will be brought into public ownership as soon as possible once the legislation is in place.

The sector’s overhaul will also be carried out through the Railways Bill, which will lead to the introduction of Great British Railways, first proposed by the Conservative government in May 2021.

Labour ‘ignoring rural communities’

Labour is “ignoring rural communities” and has forgotten farmers, a former Tory cabinet minister has said, as Conservative MPs responded to the King’s Speech.

Steve Barclay, the shadow environment secretary, said there was “nothing” in the policy blueprint on farming or fishing.

He wrote on Twitter/X: “This Labour government’s first King’s Speech has confirmed that they are already ignoring rural communities. Having had just 87 words on farming in their manifesto, there is nothing for farming or fishing in their plans announced today.”

Longest King’s Speech since 2003

The King’s Speech ran to 1,421 words, making it the longest monarch’s speech at a state opening of parliament since 2003.

It was also the most legislation-heavy speech for nearly two decades, with its 40 bills being the highest number to be announced at a state opening since 2005.

The text of this year’s speech took 12 minutes and 44 seconds for the King to read out loud, more than a minute longer than last year’s speech, which took him 11 minutes and 29 seconds to deliver.

It was the longest text, by word count, since the 1,448-word speech delivered by Charles’s mother, Queen Elizabeth II, at the 2003 state opening of parliament.

The longest monarch’s speech since the Second World War occurred in November 1999, when the late Queen had to deliver a speech containing 1,751 words.

Pension asset boost

The new Pensions Schemes Bill will support more than 15 million people who save in private sector schemes to help them receive better outcomes from their pension assets, Labour has said.

The bill, set out in the King’s Speech, aims to encourage pensions consolidation and put a focus on value and outcomes for scheme members.

It is hoped the moves will enable pension schemes to invest in a wider range of assets, driving growth. Measures include preventing people from losing track of their pension pots by automatically bringing small pots together. This could also benefit pension schemes, which have been required to manage some loss-making pots.

A standardised test will also be introduced that trust-based defined contribution (DC) schemes will need to meet to demonstrate they are delivering value.

‘Conversion therapy’ to be banned

‘Conversion therapy’ is to be banned in England and Wales, Sir Keir Starmer has said, as he committed to a draft bill to legislate against such practices.

The government said its Conversion Practices Bill will deliver on a manifesto commitment to bring forward a “full, trans-inclusive ban on conversion practices”.

A ban on conversion therapy, which aims to suppress or change a person’s sexual orientation or gender identity, was first promised in 2018, by former Conservative prime minister Theresa May.

This did not come to pass, with the Tories under Rishi Sunak saying legislation around such practices “is a very complex issue, with existing criminal law already offering robust protections”.

The new Labour government has said its bill “must not cover legitimate psychological support, treatment, or non-directive counselling” and “must also respect the important role that teachers, religious leaders, parents and carers can have in supporting those exploring their sexual orientation or gender identity”.

‘Serious statement of intent’

Unions warmly welcomed the announcement of the new Employment Rights Bill on Wednesday.

Paul Nowak, the TUC general secretary, said: “Whether its boosting workers’ rights, launching GB Energy, or bringing our railways back into public ownership, this is a serious statement of intent.

Christina McAnea, Unison general secretary, said: “These bills are the start of the long process to mend much of what’s been broken by Conservative governments and generate the growth to get public services thriving once more.

“Labour’s workplace rights package promises to be a game changer. For too long, bad bosses have had it all their own way. The new deal is a chance to reset the dial in favour of good employers and every UK worker and jobseeker.”

Gary Smith, the GMB general secretary, said: “GMB members will welcome proper national terms and conditions for school support staff, a fair pay agreement for social care workers and the tackling of vindictive and outdated practices used by bad bosses.”

Employment bill within 100 days of new government

An Employment Rights Bill will be introduced within the first 100 days of the new Labour administration, Sir Keir Starmer has said.

Measures will include banning “exploitative” zero-hours contracts, ending policies of fire and re-hire, and making parental leave, sick pay and protection from unfair dismissal available from day one in a job for all workers.

Flexible working will be the default from the first day in a job, while it will be unlawful to sack a woman who has had a baby for six months after she returns to work.

The bill will also remove “unnecessary” restrictions on trade unions, including the Conservative government’s controversial law aimed at ensuring a minimum level of service during strikes.

End to no-fault evictions ‘will protect tenants’

Labour will “take action where the previous government has failed” on protection for renters, the prime minister has said.

The Renters’ Rights Bill will end no-fault evictions and tackle problems that campaigners said the Conservatives’ bill had failed to address.

Sir Keir Starmer said: “Too many people currently live with the threat of insecurity and injustice, and so we will make sure everyone can grow up in the secure housing they deserve. We will introduce tough new protections for renters, end no-fault evictions and raise standards to make sure homes are safe for people to live in.”

Repossessions by bailiffs through no-fault evictions reached a six-year high in May. There were 2,682 such repossessions in the first three months of the year, Ministry of Justice figures showed, a rise of almost a fifth on the same period last year.

Truss: Labour has no idea about change Britain needs

Liz Truss said the King’s Speech shows Labour has “no idea about the change Britain needs” and its policies will result in “further economic stagnation and cultural decline”.

The former prime minister said the speech “expands the power of the unelected state and increased red tape on families and businesses”.

She highlighted Labour’s plans on the OBR, housing targets and rail and energy as “bad policies” and the smoking ban first introduced by the Tories as “unconservative”.

Analysis: How Labour’s plans for housing, train travel and work will affect you

Sir Keir Starmer’s underlying message is that there are no quick fixes to the problems facing Britain.

“The snake oil charm of populism may sound seductive, but it drives us into the dead end of further division and greater disappointment,” he said.

The King’s Speech is in keeping with that approach. There are 40 bills, including four draft bills, and no surprises. The legislative agenda for this parliament is almost a checklist of Labour ’s manifesto pledges.

Read the full story: How Labour’s plans for housing, train travel and work will affect you

Speech a ‘missed opportunity’

The SNP criticised the King’s Speech as a “missed opportunity” that failed to deliver measures such as scrapping the two-child benefit cap.

Stephen Flynn, the SNP’s Westminster leader, said: “Keir Starmer has failed his first test in government. This timid legislative programme is a missed opportunity that failed to deliver the change that people in Scotland were promised.

“While some of the small measures announced are welcome, they fail to deal with the major challenges facing the UK. There was no plan to eradicate child poverty, no plan to tackle the cost of living and no plan to end Tory austerity and boost NHS funding. And with no plan to reverse the damage of Brexit or properly invest in green energy — Starmer is restricting the potential for strong growth in the economy, wages and living standards.”

Davey: I will make carers’ voices heard

The Lib Dems vowed to “make the voice of carers heard” in response to the King’s Speech.

Sir Ed Davey, the party’s leader, said: “After years of crisis and chaos under the Conservative Party, it is clear our country faces enormous challenges. The Liberal Democrats will carefully scrutinise the government’s plans, striving hard to stand up for our constituents.

“We will continue campaigning to fix the NHS, boosting GP numbers, tackling delays to cancer treatment and improving access to dentists and pharmacists.

“We will make sure the voice of carers is heard, from increasing the Carer’s Allowance to the big challenge of fixing social care — so that our loved ones can get the support they need.”

King heckled by protesters

Protesters could be heard chanting “Not my King” as Charles left parliament.

Activists from Republic held up yellow banners and placards outside the Treasury as Charles passed in a carriage through Whitehall.

Members of the public could be heard clapping and cheering the King on the other side of the road as he came through in a carriage with the Queen.

King and Queen return to palace

The King and Queen left the Lords chamber to return to Buckingham Palace, while the MPs returned to the Commons. The King’s Speech lasted about 12 minutes and 45 seconds.

Sir Keir Starmer and Rishi Sunak were seen talking animatedly as they arrived back in the Commons, with their deputies Angela Rayner and Sir Oliver Dowden later joining them.

The Commons sitting will resume this afternoon for the remaining MPs to swear in and the first day of debate on the King’s Speech is expected from 2.30pm.

‘Economic stability’ measures

The Planning and Infrastructure Bill is one of 15 bills or draft bills under the broad heading of “economic stability and growth”.

Other measures in the programme include:

• Establishing state-owned energy production firm Great British Energy with £8.3 billion of public money across parliament • Creating a £7.3 billion national wealth fund to invest in schemes to generate economic growth and clean energy • A new package of workers’ rights, banning “exploitative” zero-hour contracts and giving day one rights on flexible working, parental leave, sick pay and protection from unfair dismissal • A law to put water companies into “special measures” to clean up rivers, lakes and seas, with bosses facing personal criminal liability for lawbreaking and a beefed-up regulator having the power to ban bonus payments if environmental standards are not met • Measures to end no-fault evictions and give greater protections to people renting their homes

Renters given more rights

Renters are set to be given greater rights, the King said.

New laws will end no fault evictions and reform grounds for possession.

The King said draft legislation would also be published of leasehold and commonhold reform.

Smoking ban resurrected

The government will resurrect Rishi Sunak’s plan to phase out smoking.

The King said ministers would introduce laws which would “progressively increase the age at which people can buy cigarettes” and also bring in new rules about the sale and marketing of vapes.

Advertising of junk food to children will also be restricted, as well as the sale of high-caffeine drinks.

He also said that a draft bill would be brought forward to so-called conversion therapy and draft legislation will also aim to “to enshrine the full right to equal pay in law” in terms of race equality.

He added that the NHS will be improved to provide “a service for all, providing care on the basis of need regardless of the ability to pay”. He said measures brought forward would “seek to reduce the waiting times, focus on prevention and improve mental health provision for young people. It will ensure mental health is given the same attention and focus as physical health”.

‘Reset relationship with Europe’

Ministers will “seek to reset the relationship with European partners”, the King said in his speech.

He said the government would “work to improve the United Kingdom’s trade and investment relationship with the European Union” and would “seek a new security pact” with the EU.

He said: “Later this week, my government will host the European Political Community meeting at Blenheim Palace. The Queen and I look forward to our visit to Samoa alongside the Commonwealth Heads of government meeting in October, and our visit to Australia.

Britain on path to national renewal, says Starmer

Sir Keir Starmer said his government “will always put the country first”.

He said: “Governments can make or break people’s lives, as well as the life of a nation, and we will wear that responsibility with the seriousness it deserves.

“This is an agenda focused entirely on delivering security, opportunity, prosperity and justice for every person across the country. We will unlock growth and take the brakes off Britain, turning the page for good on the economic irresponsibility and pervasive inability to face the future that we saw under the Conservative government.

“This King’s Speech returns politics to serious government, returns government to service, and returns service to the interests of working people. That is the path of national renewal. We start that journey immediately.”

‘Conversion therapy’ ban planned

Sir Keir Starmer said that pledges to ban so-called conversion therapy was “a promise that has lingered in the lobby of good intentions for far too long”.

Labour will introduce a ban which is inclusive of transgender people and also introduce a new race equality bill which will “root out the structural injustices that make it harder for people of colour to thrive”.

Financial chaos ‘will never happen again under Labour’

The prime minister, in an introduction to the bills outlined today, said his plan starts “as it must” with the economy, pledging financial chaos will “never happen again with my Labour government”.

Sir Keir Starmer said: “From that foundation of economic stability, we will generate higher economic growth in every community.”

Starmer said that he would stimulate the economy through “reform [of] the planning rules to build the homes and infrastructure the country desperately needs”.

He said: “We will level up workers’ rights, so every person has security, respect and dignity at work; we will create a new industrial strategy and invest in cleaner, cheaper British energy; and we will harness the power of artificial intelligence as we look to strengthen safety frameworks.”

Ignore snake oil charm of populism, Starmer tells nation

Sir Keir Starmer has warned against the “seductive […] snake oil charm of populism” as he sets out a legislative agenda devoid of surprises.

The prime minister, introducing his first King’s Speech, said: “The era of politics as performance and self-interest above service is over.”

Pledging to rebuild the country — but warning it will not happen overnight — Starmer said: “The fight for trust is the battle that defines our political era. It is only by serving the interests of working people, and delivering real change that transforms lives, that we can begin to restore people’s faith that politics can be a force for good.”

“The challenges we face require determined, patient work and serious solutions, rather than the temptation of the easy answer. The snake oil charm of populism may sound seductive, but it drives us into the dead end of further division and greater disappointment.”

‘Commitment to Nato unshakeable’

The King said the government would “ensure a strong defence” based on the common values of Nato.

He said: “Its commitment to Nato will remain unshakeable. It will maintain a strong Armed Forces, including the nuclear deterrent. To ensure that the United Kingdom’s defence capabilities are matched to the changing nature of global strategic threats, my government will conduct a Strategic Defence Review.”

The King said that ministers would continue to support Ukraine and “will endeavour to play a leading role in providing Ukraine with a clear path to Nato membership”.

He said the government would also “play its part in trying to secure long term peace and security in the Middle East. It is committed to a two-state solution with a safe and secure Israel alongside a viable and sovereign Palestinian state.”

Labour will seek to strengthen border

The government will “seek to strengthen the border and make streets safer”, the King said.

He told the Lords: “A bill will be introduced to modernise the asylum and immigration system, establishing a new Border Security Command and delivering enhanced counter terror powers to tackle organised immigration crime.”

He also said ministers would look to “strengthen community policing, give the police greater powers to deal with antisocial behaviour and strengthen support for victims”, as well as halving violence against women and girls.

The government will also attempt to improve the safety and security of public venues against terrorism, in what is known as Martyn’s Law, named after Martyn Hett who died in the Manchester Arena attack.

House of Lords to be reformed

The government will “modernise the constitution” by introducing reforms to the House of Lords, the King said.

This will include removing the right of hereditary peers to sit and vote.

The King said there would also be a new modernisation committee of the House of Commons “which will be tasked with driving up standards, improving work practices and reforming procedures”.

‘Urgency of climate change’

The King, an early supporter of green policies, has said the government “recognises the urgency of the global climate challenge”.

He said that Starmer was “committed to a clean energy transition which will lower energy bills for consumers over time” and planned to establish Great British Energy, a publicly owned clean power company, “which will help accelerate investment in renewable energy such as offshore wind”.

The King said the new job opportunities can come “from leading the development of the technologies of the future”.

The government will also bring forward laws to help achieve energy independence, and support sustainable aviation fuel production.

VAT to be paid by private schools

The King said ministers would “seek to raise educational standards and break down barriers to opportunity”.

He that said new laws would “raise standards in education and promote children’s wellbeing”, while the government would also bring forward measures to charge VAT on private school fees.

For adults, the government aims to “break down barriers to opportunity” by getting people back into employment and establishing Skills England. The government will also reform the apprenticeship levy.

New powers to fix waterways

Aiming to tackle the sewage crisis in Britain’s waters, the King said that the government would hand new powers to Ofwat.

The King said: “My government recognises the need to improve water quality and a bill will be introduced to strengthen the powers of the water regulator.”

Railways effectively to be renationalised

On the railways, the King said the government would reform rail franchising, establish Great British Railways and effectively renationalise train operators.

The King said: “Taken together these policies will enhance Britain’s position as a leading industrial nation and enable the country to take advantage of new opportunities that can promote growth and wealth creation.”

Government will ‘get Britain building’

The King announced that the government would “get Britain building”, including through planning reform.

He said this would include efforts to “accelerate the delivery of high quality infrastructure and housing”.

Charles said: “They will also pursue sustainable growth by encouraging investment in industry, skills and new technologies.”

‘New partnership with businesses and working people’

The government’s “fundamental mission” will be “securing economic growth”, the King said.

He said: “My government will seek a new partnership with both business and working people and help the country move on from the recent cost of living challenges by prioritising wealth creation for all communities.”

He said this would be delivered through an Industrial Strategy Council and added: “It is my government’s objective to see rising living standards in all nations and regions in the United Kingdom.”

Labour programme ‘mission led’

The King has said the government will “govern in service to the country” as he began to set out Sir Keir Starmer’s legislative agenda.

Addressing the Lords, he said the programme would be “mission led and based upon the principles of security, fairness and opportunity for all”.

The King put “stability” as the “cornerstone” of Starmer and Rachel Reeves’s economic policy, and he added: “Every decision will be consistent with its fiscal rules.”

Starmer: We will serve working people

Sir Keir Starmer has said his King’s Speech today will set out “how we are delivering change for our country”.

The prime minister said he was “serving working people” and “creating wealth in every community”, adding: “National renewal starts now.”

He said: “More jobs. Better transport. Building homes and infrastructure. Now is the time to take the brakes off Britain and rebuild it to work for everyone. Today we set out new laws to create wealth in every corner of our country to make people better off.”

King and Queen at House of Lords

The King and Queen have arrived at the House of Lords.

Sir Lindsay Hoyle has now arrived in the House of Commons.

The Commons Speaker took his seat as Sir Keir Starmer and Rishi Sunak, along with dozens of MPs, looked on.

They now await the arrival of Black Rod.

King’s long experience of state opening of parliament

The King has a long experience of joining the royal procession for the state opening of parliament.

He first took part in the procession in 1967 when his mother the Queen opened parliament. On that occasion he was joined by his sister, the Princess Royal.

In 2022 the King, then Prince of Wales, and Prince William — then Duke of Cambridge — opened parliament on behalf of Queen Elizabeth II. The King was accompanied by his wife.

What happens when Charles arrives at parliament?

The King and Queen will arrive at the Sovereign’s Entrance at the Palace of Westminster at approximately 11am, where they will be received by the Lord Great Chamberlain and taken to the Royal Robing Room.

There the King, who will be wearing the Admiral of the Fleet Royal Naval Number 1 Dress with cap and sword, will put on the Imperial State Crown and Robe of State. The Queen will wear the George IV State Diadem and Robe of State.

At approximately 11.27am, The Lord Great Chamberlain followed by the King and Queen, will enter the Royal Gallery and the Procession will move to the Chamber of the House of Lords.

Queen turns 77 today

The King is accompanied by the Queen, who is marking her 77th birthday today.

The Queen is wearing an off white silk crepe embroidered dress by Fiona Clare. George IV State Diadem, Diamond collet necklace, diamond Van Clef & Arpels earrings, diamond bracelet.

It is the second time the King has opened parliament as monarch. The last time was November 7, 2023.

The King and Queen are travelling from Buckingham Palace in the Diamond Jubilee State Coach pulled by six grey horses called Milford Haven, Shadow, Echo, Knightsbridge, Holyrood and Tyrone.

Charles and Camilla choose Diamond Jubilee State Coach

The King and Queen have chosen the Diamond Jubilee State Coach for today’s carriage procession. It was first used by The late Queen in 2014 for the state opening of parliament after being presented to her for her jubilee in 2012.

The interior seat handrails are from the Royal Yacht Britannia, on which the King spent his family holidays as a young boy.

The window frames and inside panels include material from Henry VIII’s flagship the Mary Rose plus sections from Caernarfon Castle, Canterbury Cathedral, Durham Cathedral, 10 Downing Street and the Antarctic bases of Captain Scott and Sir Ernest Shackleton.

The coach is said to “successfully combines traditional craftsmanship and modern technology” with an aluminium body. The crown on the top of the coach, carved from oak from HMS Victory, is designed to carry a camera so the royal household can film the crowds lining the route.

Imperial State Crown taken to parliament

Starmer leaves No 10

Sir Keir Starmer has just left No 10 and is now making his way to parliament.

Meanwhile, members of the House of Lords are taking their seats in the chamber. Images show several armed police marksmen stationed on the roof of Buckingham Palace.

Charles will pass an anti-monarchy protest as he makes his way to the Palace of Westminster for the state opening of parliament. Pro-Republic campaigners have taken up a position at the end of Whitehall, just across from the Houses of Parliament.

They are waving banners and holding signs with the message “not my king”, “down with the Crown” and “abolish the monarchy”.

Podcast: How Labour plans to change Britain

Traditional search of parliament’s cellars.

‘It shows where the power lies’

The king traditionally delivers his speech from a golden throne while wearing the Robe of State and the diamond-encrusted Imperial State Crown. This will be third speech Charles has delivered, and his second as king.

In 2022, the Queen delegated this critical duty to Charles. The move was seen as evidence that a transition was underway, with the 96-year-old monarch remaining on the throne but turning over more responsibilities to her eldest son.

Charles is likely to be inscrutable in his reading of the speech, offering no clue as to whether he approves of the policies he announces on behalf of “my government”.

George Gross, a royal historian at King’s College London, said that the pomp and circumstance is there to make a point. He added: “It ultimately shows where power lies, and power now lies via the people through the government.”

MP ‘held hostage’ for state opening

The government MP holding the position of vice-chamberlain of the household — currently Samantha Dixon — is “held hostage” in Buckingham Palace while the King is in parliament.

The tradition dates back to King Charles I’s effort to arrest lawmakers in 1642 as he tried to assert his right to govern without the advice and consent of parliament. Charles I was ultimately tried for treason and beheaded.

Ever since then, the monarch has been barred from entering the House of Commons. That is why the opening ceremony takes place in the House of Lords, parliament’s unelected upper chamber.

Centuries of tradition

Charles will officially open the new session of parliament in his ceremonial robes and the crown of state to deliver a speech laying out the legislative program of the new Labour government.

After his arrival, the monarch will summon parliament and the Black Rod will go to knock on the Common’s door. As part of the tradition, the door will be slammed in their face to demonstrate the parliament’s sovereignty and MPs will head to the Lords to watch the King deliver the speech.

The King will then leave the chamber and parliament will start to debate the announced policies in a process which could until next week.

The event is a symbol of the monarch’s constitutional role as head of state and is accompanied by centuries of tradition. It is the only routine occasion during which both houses of parliament and the Crown come together in the same place.

The history of the event

The King’s Speech dates back to at least the 15th century. The event gets underway at 9.30am, when the Yeomen of the Guard — a group of ceremonial bodyguards who still wear traditional red and gold uniforms from the Tudor period — search the cellars beneath the Houses of Parliament for explosives.

The tradition is a reminder of the 1605 Gunpowder Plot in which Roman Catholic rebels led by Guy Fawkes tried to kill Protestant King James I by blowing up the building during the state opening of parliament.

The public show starts later in the morning, when the Household Cavalry Mounted Regiment leads a procession from Buckingham Palace to the Houses of Parliament. A separate coach carrying the Imperial State Crown, the Cap of Maintenance and Sword of State precedes the monarch.

What is the King’s Speech?

The King’s Speech provides the government with the opportunity to highlight its priorities for the coming months.

Formally known as the “speech from the throne,” it is a key part of the state opening of parliament ceremony.

The speech is written by the government but delivered by the monarch. Its length can depend on the proposed number of laws and announcements although it generally lasts about ten minutes.

The speech will begin at about 11.25am and it is likely to be available to watch via all major broadcasters. Business is then suspended until 2.30pm, after which the debate on the King’s Speech is opened.

£100m ‘tough love’ youth programme

The new crime and policing bill is expected to introduce a ban on dangerous “zombie” knives and a crackdown on shoplifting.

One of the most eye-catching proposals is to set up a £100 million “tough love” youth programme to help tackle a knife crime epidemic and a mental health crisis among UK teenagers.

Tackling knife crime became an urgent political debate after Valdo Calocane fatally stabbed Barnaby Webber and Grace O’Malley-Kumar, both 19-year-old students, and a school caretaker, Ian Coates, 65.

Calocane, who had been diagnosed with paranoid schizophrenia, pleaded guilty to manslaughter on the grounds of diminished responsibility, meaning he did not stand trial for murder.

Separately, taking and sending intimate images without someone’s consent will be criminalised under the new bill. Labour also plans to tackle violence against women by hiring domestic abuse specialists in emergency call centres. Specialist rape and sexual offences teams will also be introduced in every police force, Labour has said.

House of Lords overhaul

The prime minister is expected to announce a House of Lords reform bill which could set the mandatory retirement age for the upper chamber at 80.

It will also abolish the rights of hereditary peers to sit and vote in the second chamber.

Sir Keir Starmer is also set to resurrect the plan of his predecessor, Rishi Sunak, to bring in a phased smoking ban, which was dropped in the last-minute flurry of legislation passed after the election was called.

Other reforms will include a workers’ rights bill. It will ban zero-hours contracts, fire and rehire, and ensure rights to sick pay and parental leave. Labour will consult on all the main measures in an attempt to address the concerns of businesses.

Private schools tax breaks to end

Ending tax breaks on private schools has been one of the prime minister’s key pledges, and was widely discussed in Labour’s manifesto.

The party believes it can raise some £1.6 billion a year by ending the 20 per cent VAT exemption as part of its plans to recruit about 6,500 specialist state school teachers in England. The bill has raised concerns about local authority schools being strained by a sudden influx of pupils taken out of private schools due to rising fees.

While legislation to impose VAT and business rates on private school fees will be confirmed on Wednesday, it is unlikely to be implemented until September 2025.

Speech includes 35 bills

The King’s Speech is expected to contain 35 bills including plans to reform the House of Lords, oversee the effective nationalisation of the railways and give new powers to directly elected mayors that Labour wants to see established in all cities and large towns across England.

Labour will also resurrect the Renters Reform Bill, which the Tories dropped because of opposition from Conservative MPs. The law will abolish “no-fault” evictions and empower tenants to challenge “unreasonable” rent increases.

The party also pledged to take steps to raise housing standards in the sector, including extending Awaab’s Law to private rentals. The law was named after Awaab Ishak, two, who died in 2020 due to a respiratory condition caused by prolonged exposure to damp .

‘Grey belt land plan is shameless spin’

Chris Philp, the shadow leader of the House of Commons, told Times Radio that the government’s plans to find what it calls “grey belt” land to build on is “shameless spin”.

The Conservative MP said: “Obviously we accept and agree that more houses need to be built, but they need to be built in the right places.

“For example, in my view, they should be built on brownfield sites in city centres, those kinds of places first looking at maybe new towns, but what we should not be doing is ripping up the green belt.”

He said: “They are talking about huge chunks of the green belt, not the odd car park. You can’t just suddenly claim that a whole load of green belt is now called the grey belt and it’s okay to build on it. I mean, that’s just obviously a piece of nonsensical and shameless spin.”

Two-child benefit cap likely to remain

Pat McFadden has suggested that there will not be any movement on lifting the two-child benefit cap in the King’s Speech.

Sir Keir Starmer has been facing calls from some of his MPs to lift the restriction, which stops parents being able to claim benefits for their third and subsequent children.

Asked about the measure on BBC Breakfast, McFadden said: “The King’s Speech is about implementing what we said we’d do, people shouldn’t expect it to implement the things that we didn’t say we’d do.”

McFadden said there was a “good case” to lift the cap, but the “economic inheritance” received did not allow the government to commit to it. He said: “We shouldn’t expect a different answer from Labour two weeks after the election on this to the one that we gave two weeks before the election.”

Housing bill to ‘turbo-charge’ planning process

The centrepiece of the King’s Speech will be plans to force councils to identify land needed to meet future housing needs.

The new housing bill will aim to “turbo-charge” and streamline the planning process to ensure Labour meets its target of building 1.5 million homes. Rules will also be changed to enable infrastructure such as renewable energy and pylons to be built faster.

The new legal measures will force councils to quickly identify enough land to meet their predicted future housing needs. Once that land has been identified there will be a presumption in favour of development, with local residents able to agree the style of new housing but not object to it getting built.

Councils that fail to produce timely plans will see ministers step in and impose house-building blueprints on them.

‘Overly dramatic’ to say Labour will override residents

Pat McFadden has said it is “overly dramatic” to suggest Labour will override the right of residents to oppose new housing developments.

McFadden told LBC it was “divisive” to frame the government’s policy in those terms and said local authorities would be asked to identify where homes should be built.

He said that the government would tell councils to prioritise brownfield land, adding that people “want to realise the dream of homeownership or having a home of their own and the rates at which we’ve been building in recent years have been too low”.

Railways to be nationalised in new legislation

Labour will unveil new legislation to nationalise the railways today in a move that it said would improve reliability and save money.

Sir Keir Starmer will use the King’s Speech to confirm that railway franchises will be taken back into public ownership once contracts have expired — ultimately resulting in all railways being returned to public ownership.

He will also press ahead with the creation of Great British Railways (GBR), a body initially announced in 2021 under Boris Johnson, which will seek to simplify fares and discounts.

It will oversee the rollout of digital pay-as-you go across the rail network and automatic compensation. GBR will also take over the ownership of all infrastructure, including more than 20,000 miles of track, from Network Rail.

Decision over Belfast stadium ‘taken in proper way’

A decision “will be taken in the proper way” over the future of a derelict stadium in Belfast , Pat McFadden said, after Sir Keir Starmer’s chief of staff has been accused of “subverting” cabinet ministers in an effort to secure a government bailout.

Pat McFadden, the chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster, told Times Radio that it appeared that “whoever spoke to The Times” about concerns over Sue Gray’s involvement in the process “doesn’t want to see the stadium redeveloped”.

McFadden told Times Radio: “Whether it will be or not, a decision will be taken in the proper way.”

Gray has angered government officials and ministers by “personally dominating” negotiations for a bailout for Casement Park, a dilapidated Gaelic games venue due to host matches at the 2028 European football championship. Downing Street sources said that no decision on the future of Casement Park had been made and an announcement was not imminent.

‘Housing won’t be a free for all under Labour’

The government will not “sacrifice the beautiful parts of our countryside” in order to build houses, a cabinet minister has said.

Pat McFadden told Times Radio there would not be a “free for all” under Labour’s plans to build millions of homes, but he said: “We do have to get things built in this country.”

Sir Keir Starmer will pledge to “take the brakes off Britain” by removing the power from local people to block new homes and infrastructure.

McFadden said that Labour MPs would not be “entitled to block” developments in their constituency, but he said: “Overall we have to get stuff built. So you can have lots of fun in the next couple of years saying here’s a Labour MP who doesn’t want this particular development, I know that will happen, of course, I’m not going to come on here and say that won’t happen. That shouldn’t happen.”

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Trump tells Christian voters they 'won't have to vote anymore' if he's elected

Sarah McCammon

Juliana Kim

Former President Donald Trump speaks during the Turning Point USA Student Action Summit on Friday in West Palm Beach, Fla. Joe Raedle/Getty Images hide caption

For more on the 2024 race head to the NPR Network's live updates page.

Former President Donald Trump struck several familiar notes in his address to Christians at Turning Point Action’s “Believers Summit” in West Palm Beach, Fla.

The gathering of religious conservatives Friday night was an opportunity for Trump to appeal to the critical Republican voting bloc. The Republican nominee promised to protect religious freedom and touted his history of supporting the Israeli government.

It's easy to believe young voters could back Trump at young conservative conference

Trump also urged Christians to turn out for him ahead of Election Day, calling it the "most important election ever." He added that if elected, Christian-related concerns will be "fixed" so much so that they would no longer need to be politically engaged.

"You won’t have to do it anymore. Four more years, you know what? It’ll be fixed, it’ll be fine. You won’t have to vote anymore, my beautiful Christians," he said.

Trump also promised to create an anti-Christian bias federal task force, as well as to defund schools "pushing critical race theory, transgender insanity, and other inappropriate racial, sexual or political content onto the lives of our children."

Friday night was Trump's second campaign speech since Biden stepped out of the race and endorsed Vice President Harris as the Democratic nominee.

At the summit, Trump spent extensive time attacking Harris.

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"If Kamala Harris gets in, she will be the most extreme radical liberal president in American history," Trump said.

Turning Point Action is the advocacy wing of Turning Point USA, one of the largest national organizations focused on engaging students on conservative issues.

• election 2024

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Trump Tells Christians ‘You Won’t Have to Vote Anymore’ If He’s Elected

Donald Trump, after lamenting that conservative Christians are not “big voters,” urged the religious right to turn out for him “just this time.”

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By Michael Gold

• July 27, 2024

In the closing minutes of his speech to a gathering of religious conservatives on Friday night, former President Donald J. Trump told Christians that if they voted him into office in November, they would never need to vote again.

“Christians, get out and vote. Just this time,” he said at The Believers’ Summit, an event hosted by the conservative advocacy group Turning Point Action, in West Palm Beach, Fla. “You won’t have to do it anymore, you know what? Four more years, it’ll be fixed, it’ll be fine, you won’t have to vote anymore, my beautiful Christians.”

Mr. Trump, who never made a particular display of religious observance before entering politics, continued: “I love you, Christians. I’m a Christian. I love you, you got to get out and vote. In four years, you don’t have to vote again. We’ll have it fixed so good, you’re not going to have to vote.”

Mr. Trump’s comments came at the end of a nearly hourlong speech in which he appealed to religious conservatives by promising to defend them from perceived threats from the left. Earlier in his remarks, he lamented that conservative Christians do not vote in large numbers, a complaint he had made repeatedly on the trail.

“They don’t vote like they should,” Mr. Trump said of Christians. “They’re not big voters.”

Mr. Trump’s suggestion that Christians would not have to vote again if he is elected quickly spread across social media. Some argued that it was a threat that the 2024 election could be the nation’s last if he were to win and claimed it was further evidence of an authoritarian, anti-democratic bent he has displayed throughout his political candidacy.

Asked to clarify Mr. Trump’s intent, Steven Cheung, a spokesman for Mr. Trump’s campaign, said in a statement: “President Trump was talking about uniting this country and bringing prosperity to every American, as opposed to the divisive political environment that has sowed so much division and even resulted in an assassination attempt.”

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