King Charles has unveiled the government’s legislative agenda for the year ahead. It announced 37 new bills.
The speech focused on strengthening the nation’s economy, energy, and national security, as well as improving public services and addressing the ‘opportunity crisis.’
It comes amidst a growing rift at the heart of the government. There are reports that Health Secretary Wes Streeting may resign from the Cabinet on Wednesday, 27 May ’26, which may trigger a leadership contest.
Bills included in the King’s speech:
Strengthening economic security
Steel Industry (nationalisation)
We will nationalise the steel industry to bring British Steel under public ownership. It would establish a public interest test that must be initially met for this transfer of ownership, besides introducing compensation powers to obtain independently assessed compensation.
Northern Powerhouse Rail Bill
Will invest USD 60.75 (£40) billion to deliver the Northern Powerhouse Rail. This will include upgrades to lines east of the Pennines, meant for delivery in the ‘30s; and a new route between Liverpool & Manchester. That’s through Warrington as well as Manchester Airport and also delivers better cross-Pennine links in addition to the Transpennine Route Upgrade.
European Partnership Bill
It will give powers to fulfil treaty obligations in UK-EU agreements. This applies when it serves the UK national interest, allowing for the extension of these powers into any future treaties.
Small Business Protections (Late Payments) Bill
Will impose a maximum payment term of 60 days. Additionally, we will implement mandatory interest for late payments. Additionally, a time limit will be established for raising invoicing disputes. It will require boards or audit committees of a persistently late-paying reputation to publish commentary on poor payment performances. Also, give the small business commissioner new powers to investigate, adjudicate & fine businesses that persistently fail to comply.
Clean water bill
Introduce a new Water Ombudsman to ensure prompt and effective resolution of complaints. It will combine powers from Ofwat and the Drinking Water Inspectorate. Additionally, the Environment Agency will work alongside Natural England under a new integrated water regulator. The bill will also update outdated regulations and frameworks to tackle pollution at source.
