The government of embattled prime minister Sir Keir Starmer today signalled its intention to proceed with reforms to the criminal justice system. As widely expected, the King’s speech also included a promise of legislation to reform leasehold, including the capping of ground rents. 

A Courts Modernisation Bill will make 'significant reforms' to the the criminal justice system, the speech announced. 

King Charles III and Queen Camilla depart Buckingham Palace en route to the Palace of Westminster for the State Opening of Parliament

King Charles III and Queen Camilla depart Buckingham Palace en route to the Palace of Westminster for the State Opening of Parliament

Source: Alamy

Other legislation proposed to the session of parliament which opened today will include bills:

  • to strengthen ties with the European Union [European Partnership Bill]
  • to reduce the burden of unnecessary regulation through innovation [Regulating for Growth Bill]
  • to introduce Digital ID to modernise how citizens interact with public services [Digital Access to Services Bill]

A Public Office (Accountability) Bill will introduce the so-called ’Hillsborough Law’, creating a duty of candour for public servants.