The King’s Speech 2024

The King’s Speech for the new Labour government outlined the draft laws the government plans to introduce, reflecting their properties, particularly those outlined during the general election campaign.

Here’s a summary of the key points relevant to charities and voluntary organisations:

Included in the Speech

• Devolution: An English devolution bill will transfer more powers to local communities, affecting skills, energy, planning and transport. This will be crucial for local voluntary organisations to foster strong relationships.
• Mental Health Act Reforms: Aimed at giving individuals more choice and reducing racial disparities in mental health detention, which will be of interest to mental health charities.
• Ban on Conversion Therapy: A new bill will completely ban conversion therapies for LGBTQ+ individuals, a significant win for LGBTQ+ and human rights charities.
• Violence Against Women and Girls: A crime and policing bill will address violence against women and girls with measures such as specialist rape courts and increased police powers. Charities supporting women and girls should stay informed.
• Net Zero Goals: A Great British Energy Bill will establish a public company for renewable energy investments and the end of the onshore wind ban will support climate goals.
• Tax Relief for Private Schools: The government plans to remove tax reliefs for private schools, which could impact charitable educational institutions.
• Employment Rights: An employment rights bill will include measures like immediate parental leave and sick pay, potentially increasing staff costs for voluntary organisations. It will also protect equal pay rights for marginalised groups.
• Democratic Change: A House of Lords reform bill will address hereditary peers’ rights and might include measures to strengthen election integrity and participation.

Guidance: https://bit.ly/40i8ZlO