Queen's Speech

There will obviously be a mass of news about what is in the Queen's Speech, but try and look out for the constitutional changes such as those expected re the Calman Reforms to the Scottish Government and the already hyped 55% rule, the referendum on electoral reform (AV) and the abolition of ID cards. The BBC is probably a good start and commentary from other sources such as Channel 4 and The Times (make the most of it before it charges!) will be useful.

Queen's Speech

The Queen has given her last speech of this Parliament. 15 Bills have been promised but there are only 33 working days in the House of Lords before the next election to get them passed. The Bills include a Child Poverty Bill and a Children, Schools and Families Bill to guarantee pupils and parents specific entitlements in education. Is this ceremony unnecessary and out of date, and is it more about scoring points over the Conservatives? Let us know your opinion.

PS: Here is a link to Queen Victoria's speech from 1841.

Polls

You may have noticed that a poll has appeared in the top right of the blog. Do you think there should be a Queen's Speech this year when the length of the next Parliament will be severely curtailed by the election? David Cameron doesn't think so. What's your opinion? Please also let us know if there are any problems with the voting process.

UPDATE: This poll isn't very satisfactory as it turns out you have to have a blog to take part! Apologies for that. A new version should appear next week.