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Live Reporting

Tom Moseley, Nick Eardley and Natalie Miller

All times stated are UK

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  1. Wednesday recap

    That's all from Politics Live for tonight. It's been a busy day at Westminster, with the Queen's Speech revealing the government's plans for the next 12 months. Measures included:

    -An EU referendum by the end of 2017

    -More free childcare

    -An income tax freeze 

    -The right-to-buy for housing association tenants

    You can read more on the individual measures here

    In other political news, sources confirmed former Prime Minister Tony Blair is to stand down from his role as Middle East envoy representing the US, Russia, the UN and the EU.

    We'll be back tomorrow morning.

  2. Carswell attack

    Business Secretary Sajid Javid has also condemned what he described on Twitter as an "outrageous attack" on UKIP MP Douglas Carswell. 

    He said it showed "no respect for democracy and freedom of speech".  

    Earlier, Mr Carswell said he feared for his life after being surrounded by a "lynch mob" of anti-austerity protesters taking part in an anti-austerity protest.

  3. Defending MPs' rights

    BBC political correspondent tweets...

  4. Telegraph front page

  5. The Times front page

  6. The return of Today in Parliament...

    Sean Curran

    Parliamentary correspondent

    Angus Robertson

    With Parliament in full flight again, Today in Parliament is back on air - in its usual slot of 2330 on Radio 4. Parliamentary correspondent Sean Curran and the team report on the pageantry and politics of the Queen's Speech. There's Nick Clegg criticising the Conservatives, Baroness Royall paying a tearful tribute to the House of Lords and the SNP flouting protocol - by clapping. 

  7. Zero hours

    House of Commons

    Parliament

    The Queen's Speech debate is done for the night, with MPs now moving on to a discussion on zero-hours contracts. You can follow it on the BBC Parliament site

  8. 'Ineffective narrative'

    House of Commons

    Parliament

    Speaking in the Queen's Speech debate, Labour's Geraint Davies says his party lost badly at the election because it failed to explain its "economic narrative effectively". 

    He accuses the Tories of short-term thinking in their policies on Europe and Human Rights. 

  9. Daily Express front page

  10. FT front page

  11. Second maiden speech

    House of Commons

    Parliament

    Stephen Gethins

    Stephen Gethins, from the SNP, is the second new member to make his maiden speech tonight. He pays tribute to his predecessor as North East Fife MP, the former Lib Dem leader Menzies Campbell, and says it is a honour to represent the area. 

    On Europe, Mr Gethins says the SNP "fully intend" to make a "positive case" for staying in the EU, pointing out his party has some experience of referendum campaigning. 

  12. Your views on Twitter

    Tweet @BBC_HaveYourSay

    Twitter users have been sharing their views about the anti-austerity protests today, here are some:

    Sharon tweets her support for the protests: "#Solidarity with everyone on the #AntiAusterity #QueensSpeech protests & THANK YOU for being our voices #Liverpool #London #York #leeds" 

    Colin added: "Protests in London is pointless about government policies. They have just won an election and the people have spoken.  #Conservative "

    Becky Whitman comments on free speech: "#centrallondon #regentstreet #antiausterity #protest freedom of speech is a beautiful thing"  

  13. 'Deep-seated' problems

    Kwasi Kwarteng

    It's quite clear the Labour Party has "deep-seated problems", Tory MP Kwasi Kwarteng says, adding he is surprised so many have even turned up. He also pays tribute to the SNP for turning up in vast numbers and welcomes its new members. 

  14. Historical child abuse

    John Mann

    John Mann predicts historical child abuse is going to be "one of the defining issues of the next 5 years". In a passionate address, he tells the Commons the issue is widespread and nationwide. 

  15. 'Reform appetite'

    House of Commons

    Parliament

    David Rutley

    There is an appetite for reform in Europe, Tory MP David Rutley says in the Commons. The UK has to tap into that, he says, adding that increasing centralisation cannot continue. 

  16. Where is everyone?

    House of Commons

    Parliament

    Mann

    John Mann, the Labour MP, is having a go at his Labour colleagues for not turning up for tonight's debate (there aren't many people in the Commons, apart from on the SNP benches). He says Labour members will have to be in Parliament challenging the Tories and the nationalists to win back power. 

  17. 'Bounce back'

    BBC News Channel

    Lib Dem peer Lord Wallace tells BBC News there were parts of the country where his party did well and their local government base still exists in some places. In a year or two, he predicts, disillusionment with the Tories will be strong and his party will "bounce back". 

  18. 'Shot Labour's fox'

    House of Commons

    Parliament

    David Tredinnick, the Tory MP for Bosworth, says his party "shot the Labour fox" during the election campaign on the issue of health. But he questions whether enough is being done to tackle demand for the health service, mentioning obesity as an example.

  19. EVEL debate

    Sky News

    Alex Salmond is talking about English votes for English laws at the moment. He tells Sky News Scottish MPs will continue to vote on issues with direct or indirect effect

    He says the issue should be dealt with properly - earlier concerns were raised that Scottish MPs could be stopped from voting through standing orders.

    Asked about SNP MPs being told off for clapping earlier, Mr Salmond says the Commons needed to catch up with the real world. 

  20. What about us?

    House of Commons

    Parliament

    Meg Hillier, the Labour MP for Hackney South and Shoreditch, says many of her constituents are asking "What about us?" They want to know about wealth and opportunity will be enjoyed by all, she tells the chamber. 

  21. Carswell 'feared for his life'

    UKIP MP Douglas Carswell has told the Press Association he feared for his life after being surrounded by a "lynch mob" of anti-austerity protesters earlier.

    He was trying to leave Westminster following the Queen's Speech when confronted by the group.

    He said the protesters that shouted abuse at him as he waited for a bus appeared to have "pretty murderous" intent before he was escorted by officers into the back of a police van as demonstrations turned nasty. 

    Quote Message: It got extremely, extremely nasty. Their intentions were pretty murderous and I needed a lot of police officers to prevent them from attacking me"
  22. Another crash?

    House of Commons

    Parliament

    Labour's John McDonnell is up next. The MP for Hayes and Harlington says "all the ingredients for another (economic) crash" are present at the moment. He says, for many, the economic crisis comes every pay day. 

    He also criticises right to buy, saying the government is making the housing crisis worse. 

  23. 'Human tragedy'

    House of Commons

    Parliament

    Conservative MP Geoffrey Clifton-Brown is talking about foreign affairs in his speech. 

    He tells MPs the UK "desperately needs" a strategy on Ukraine, claiming Russian aggression is continuity "apace". And he says the UK also lacks a "concerted strategy" to deal with IS. He also says it looks like IS is playing a bigger part in Syria, where the situation is "extremely dangerous" and a "human tragedy". 

  24. Austerity protests

    Journalist tweets....

  25. Labour 'will oppose union laws'

    Channel 4

    Away from the Commons, shadow business secretary Chuka Umunna has said Labour will oppose Conservative plans to make it harder for workers to strike.

    The Queen's Speech included a Trade Unions Bill, which will introduce a requirement for 50 per cent of workers to vote in any ballot on strike action. It will also make a strike unlawful in essential public services - health, education, fire and transport - unless 40 per cent of those entitled to vote support taking action.

    Mr Umunna told Channel 4 the Conservatives were "obsessed" with trade unions and had set out to "demonise" teachers and health workers.He said the bill would impose a "load of thresholds" that did not have to be met to be elected to parliament and "we'll oppose them on that basis".

  26. Anti-austerity protest

    BBC journalist tweets....

  27. Your comments on Twitter

    Tweet @BBC_HaveYourSay

    Lots of comments about the Queen's Speech on Twitter.

    Charlie Lexton tweeted his view on the tax law: "#taxlock law is a waste of public money. #constitutionallaw101 #QueensSpeech" 

    Jeannie Holstein comments on austerity: "Sell the Crown - that should bring in a few bob #QueensSpeech" 

    While Josh Waldock introduced some humour with his comment: "The #QueensSpeech was a disappointing sequel to Colin Firth's magnificent performance in 2010"

  28. More powers for London

    House of Commons

    Parliament

    Labour's Gareth Thomas is now talking about more powers for London. He says the city makes a huge contribution and economic and social imperatives mean it should get more power over a number of issues. 

  29. Showing solidarity

    BBC News journalist chats to those on the march...

  30. 'Absolutely admirable'

    House of Commons

    Parliament

    Jacob Rees-Mogg is next up. He says Brendan O'Hara's speech was superb and contained everything a maiden speech should. He says the SNP has shown the Conservatives how to behave, by dressing better and showing good manners, today.

    He goes on to say the Queen's Speech is "absolutely admirable" on tax issues. And he tells MPs he supports the use of standing orders for some bills, which could see some MPs not permitted to vote if the issue does not affect their constituencies. He says it would mean the system could work without creating a parliament within a parliament. 

  31. Protesters on the move

    BBC News journalist tweets...

  32. Maiden speech

    House of Commons

    Parliament

    Brendan O'Hara,

    Brendan O'Hara, the SNP MP, is the first to make his maiden speech. He pays tribute to Commons staff, who he says have made him feel welcome. 

    We come to this place in a spirit of mutual respect and co-operation, he tells the House. 

  33. Protesters still in Trafalgar Square

    BBC News journalist pictures the protesters on Twitter

  34. 'Don't bow to Brussels'

    Tory MP Sir Edward Garnier tells the Commons the lack of self-confidence in British institutions is not borne out by evidence. British courts do not have to bow to Brussels, he says.

  35. 'Keep them in line'

    The Guardian chief political correspondent

  36. Sturgeon responds

    Scottish First Minister Nicola Sturgeon has responded to today's Queen's Speech:

    Quote Message: The Scottish government is always ready to be constructive in implementing legislation where we can find common ground with the UK government but we will also provide tough scrutiny of any proposed legislation. The key problem with this Queen’s Speech as far as Scotland is concerned is that it does not take account of the dramatically changed political circumstances we now find ourselves in.”
  37. Human Rights Act

    David Davis

    Tory MP David Davis says the area that worries him most in the Queen's Speech debate is Human Rights Act repeal. He tells the Commons he is very pleased the government has decided to "step back" from introducing the change right away. While he is sceptical of the European Court of Human Rights, he says he agrees with 90% of what it does. 

  38. 'Mood less ugly'

    BBC News journalist tweets from Trafalgar Square

  39. Labour MPs attend austerity demo

    Labour MP for Norwich South tweets...

  40. Carswell caught up in protests

    Douglas Carswell

    UKIP MP Douglas Carswell was caught up in the anti-austerity protests earlier, with journalist Harry Cole filming the encounter. Mr Carswell has tweeted

  41. Territorial Support Group at Downing Street

    BBC News journalist reports

  42. Plaid response

    Jonathan Edwards

    Jonathan Edwards is now responding to the Queen's Speech for Plaid Cymru. He says his party wants "more than crumbs" from the Westminster table, repeating the party's election calls for power parity with Scotland. He warns unionist parties will face electoral retaliation in Wales if they don't deliver more powers. 

  43. A new leader for Labour, but not that one...

  44. All calm

    BBC News journalist comments on Twitter

  45. Helicopters, sirens and protesters

    BBC political editor comments on Twitter

  46. Grieve on Human Rights Act

    On the repeal of the Human Rights Act, Dominic Grieve welcomes consultation on the issue and that it hasn't been set in stone in the Queen's Speech.

    He says the proposal will be very difficult to implement and could be disastrous for the UK's reputation. He says he can't imagine proceeding without backing of all nations in the UK. 

  47. 'Democratic deficit'

    Dominic Grieve, the former attorney general, tells the Commons he is reminded today of his maiden speech in 1997 - when devolution in the UK and human rights were top of the agenda.

    He tells MPs there has been "democratic deficit" when it comes to the EU and welcomes the government's plan for a referendum.

  48. Scuffle reported

    BBC News journalist reports on Twitter

  49. A "Watershed" Parliament

    House of Commons

    Parliament

    Bill Cash

    Conservative MP for Stone Bill Cash calls this a "watershed parliament," citing keys issues of Scottish devolution, the EU Referendum and the Human Rights Act.

  50. 'Sovereign parliament must act'

    House of Commons

    Parliament

    The DUP's Westminster leader Nigel Dodds ends his contribution to the Queen's speech debate by turning to the problems in the Northern Ireland Assembly over the Welfare Reform legislation. He criticises Sinn Fein for not considering any changes to welfare and says:

    Quote Message: As a result there's a £600 million deficit in the Northern Ireland budget. This will lead to the collapse of the Northern Ireland Assembly by the 31st of July unless the government steps in and enacts welfare reform. It is clear Sinn Fein are not up to doing the job, if they wont act, then this sovereign parliament must act."
  51. 'Petition on food waste'

    Green MP for Brighton tweets...

  52. 'More cameras...'

    BBC political reporter tweets...

  53. 'Devolution prospectus'

    Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors senior vice president tweets...

  54. Best wishes for Peter Robinson

    House of Commons

    Parliament

    Nigel Dodds

    DUP Westminster Leader Nigel Dodds thanks staff of the Houses of Parliament and other MPs for sending get well wishes to First Minister Peter Robinson following his stay in hospital after suffering a suspected heart attack.

    Moving on to issues of devolution, Mr Dodds says: "We need to take time and take things carefully and move forward in a consensual way. That's why I have advocated, in the past, the idea of a constitutional convention." 

    He added: "We should not tamper with our constitutional arrangements ad hoc, or quickly, or for party political advantage."

  55. 'March on the move'

    BBC News journalist tweets...

  56. Maiden speeches

  57. 'Tory wrecking ball at full power'

    Photographer from Chelmsford tweets...

  58. Recap on Queen's Speech

    Here's a brief recap of the highlights of the Queen's Speech, in which the government has put forward 26 full bills for its first year:

  59. 'Protesters chanting'

    BBC TV journalist tweets...

  60. 'Fighting back'

    English teacher in Leeds tweets...

  61. Salmond in 'gerrymandering' warning

    Former SNP leader Alex Salmond says he was delighted to make his first contribution since returning to Parliament, joking that he had "brought a few friends" with him for the occasion. 

    Mr Salmond promises to keep the pressure on the government over Scottish devolution, Europe and plans to reform the House of Commons. 

    Changing the standing orders in the House of Commons to give English MPs the final say over English-only laws would be tantamount to "gerrymandering", he tells the BBC. 

    Ministers must bring forward legislation if they want to change long-standing conventions, he says, describing the government's proposed approach as "sharp practice and beyond contempt".

  62. 'Some scuffles'

    BBC TV journalist tweets...

  63. Dividing opinion

    Rory-Cellan Jones

    Technology correspondent

     Overdue modernisation of the way the authorities monitor criminals and terrorists - or a Snooper's Charter eroding our basic liberties?

    The proposal outlined in the Queen's Speech to "modernise the law on communications data" will divide opinion. 

    But prepare for another long battle over the way that law is framed and the balance it strikes between privacy and public safety.  

    Read more from Rory here.

  64. Inaccurate inaccuracies

    Spectator Assistant Editor tweets...

  65. 'Disappointing' election coverage

    House of Commons

    Parliament

    Conservative MP for Southend West Sir David Ames kicks off his contribution to express disappointment at media coverage of the general election and the "absolute irritation" with the media's "endless obsession" with a potential hung parliament result.

    He calls for a ban of opinion polls in the six weeks of the general election campaign.

  66. Does Queen's Speech make economic sense?

    Robert Peston

    Economics editor

    David Cameron

    The first legislative programme of the Conservative government looks ambitious. But what does it tell us about the economic soul of David Cameron and his ministerial colleagues?

    Is there a rubric or ideology that usefully describes their agenda? Or is it best seen as pragmatism designed above all to shore up Tory support in parts of England where it is weak, and a short-term prophylactic against the restiveness of nations undermining the prime minister's ability to govern? 

    Read more from Robert here.

  67. Police 'keeping low profile'

    BBC News journalist tweets...

  68. Union funding reforms

    Unions have accused the Conservatives of a "shamelessly partisan attack" on Labour Party funding with reforms proposed in the Queen's Speech.

    Under the changes, union members will have to "opt in" if they want to pay a political levy as part of their fees, rather than having to opt out.

    Labour's Harriet Harman said changes to party funding should not be "rigged in favour of the Tory Party". Read more here .

  69. On the subject of housing

    House of Commons

    Parliament

    Labour MP David Lammy turns to a key concern for Londoners - houses. He says there is "no vision for social housing in this country" and that it beggars belief "that Government should extend right-to-buy." 

  70. Heading towards Downing Street

    BBC News journalist tweets...

  71. 'Marching down Whitehall'

    BBC News journalist tweets...

  72. Referendum date

    Asked when the EU referendum will take place, Energy Secretary Amber Rudd says "of course" she would like to see it earlier than the end of 2017. 

    But she says people have to be patient, await the outcome of the prime minister's negotiations and hope they will be presented with a "clear choice" when the vote comes around. 

    On welfare, she says she believes the public will support £12bn in further savings, insisting the most vulnerable and pensioners will be protected.  

  73. London mayoral hopeful

    David Lammy

    MP for Tottenham David Lammy rises to his feet. 

    In a nod to his career past, he says it's been 14 years since he was a seconder in the Humble Address, and now is seen as a "senior member of the House of Commons."

    Referring to the post he hopes to take over, he says that the Mayor of London should have a "greater say in health" and a "greater say in education."

    And, of course, he mentions incumbent Mayor of London Boris Johnson and "wishes him the very best" in the years ahead on the Commons benches as MP for Uxbridge and Ruislip South. 

  74. 'Anti-Tory whistles'

    BBC News journalist tweets...

  75. 'Cross-party agreement'

    Labour MP for Rotherham tweets...

  76. Chief quip

    House of Commons

    Parliament

    Greg Knight

    Conservative MP Greg Knight intervenes on Andrew Mitchell: 

    Quote Message: I'm rather surprised to hear a former deputy chief whip speaking up for human rights
  77. International picture

    House of Commons

    Parliament

    Andrew Mitchell moves on to talk about the international picture and the migrant crisis in the Mediterranean, describing the refugees as "some of the bravest people in the world'". 

    He also says there has been "very little international leadership" on the threat from Islamic State militants and calls for "smart policies" and a "political solution" to the problem. 

  78. A fond farewell

    House of Lords

    Parliament

    Baroness Royall of Blaisdon

    Meanwhile, the Lords finish their debate on the Queen's Speech for the day.

    Baroness Royall of Blaisdon ends her contribution on a tearful note as she stands down as Leader of the Opposition in the House of Lords. 

    She will however "continue to play my part from the back benches."

  79. Mitchell on the Human Rights Act

    The Birmingham Post political editor tweets...

  80. Tribute paid to Clegg

    House of Commons

    Parliament

    Conservative MP Andrew Mitchell follows Nick Clegg. He pays tribute to Mr Clegg, saying that history will treat his time as deputy prime minister more kindly than the electorate did. 

  81. Latest from Trafalgar Square

    BBC News journalist tweets...

  82. 'Constitution past sell-by date'

    House of Commons

    Parliament

    The Conservatives are in charge at a time of "great political fragility", says Nick Clegg. 

    "I learned, Mr Speaker, the hard way, of the difficulties of reforming our creaking political system," he says. "No one needs any more evidence that our British constitution is well past its sell-by date."

    He points out that under a proportional voting system, his party would now have 51 MPs - instead of just eight.

  83. View from the press gallery

    BBC political correspondent tweets...

  84. Counselling against complacency

    House of Commons

    Parliament

    Nick Clegg's talking about the EU referendum now. 

    He urges the government not to string out the renegotiations - and remember it will be won "on conviction, not ambivalence". 

    Mr Clegg also says David Cameron should not "overstate what he can deliver" - and also counsels against "complacency" in his former coalition partner's approach. 

  85. Quiet chamber

    House of Commons

    Parliament

    Nick Clegg speaks
  86. 'Thread of liberalism'

    House of Commons

    Parliament

    Nick Clegg

    Nick Clegg says his party "worked hard" for the "thread of liberalism" that ran through the coalition government - mentioning policies on mental health, the green agenda and protecting civil liberties. 

    It is "dispiriting" but not surprising to see Conservatives turning their backs on that stance, Mr Clegg continues.

    He says it is the last time he will be speaking for the Lib Dems. While his party's size has been reduced, their mission is "clearer than ever", he adds.  

  87. New job?

    Daily Mail political correspondent,Gerri Peev tweets

  88. 'Worse than murder'

    Political Editor of Independent on Sunday tweets...

  89. 'Hot Topic of the Week'

    Labour MP for Ynys Môn tweets...

  90. 'Clegg is still Lib Dem leader'

    BBC political correspondent tweets...

  91. From the 3rd row

    Political editor of The Sun tweets...

  92. Clegg speaks

    Nick Clegg is on his feet now. Despite standing down as Lib Dem leader, he is representing his party today. 

    Nick Clegg
  93. Boris speaks

    Boris Johnson just intervened briefly in Cheryl Gillan's speech to speak about transport in London. 

    Boris
  94. Protest in York

    BBC York political reporter tweets...

  95. In for the long haul

    House of Commons

    Parliament

    The debate on the Queen's Speech - known in parliamentary circles as the Debate on the "Loyal Address"- is due to finish at around 22:30 tonight.

    Then it's five days of debate, with each day put aside for a different policy area, finishing off with a symbolic vote. 

    Over in the Lords, peers debate the Queen's Speech but don't get the chance to vote on its contents.

  96. Breaching rules?

    House of Commons

    Parliament

    A point of order from Alex Salmond - he wants to know if proposals to restrict voting rights of Scottish MPs would breach Commons rules.

    Speaker John Bercow says he will take advice on the matter.

  97. 'The job is not done'

    The chancellor of the exchequer tweets...

  98. Trafalgar Square protest

    Trafalgar Square

    BBC journalist Mario Cacciottolo writes that one man has been led away by police in Trafalgar Square, where protesters are meeting this afternoon. There has been some anti-police chanting, but the incident is over now, he says. 

  99. Lib Dems response

    Nick Clegg

    Nick Clegg, who quit as Lib Dem leader after the election, will be delivering his party's response to the Queen's Speech. But because they now have just eight MPs, he is yet to be called... 

  100. First impressions

    SNP MP for Edinburgh East tweets...

  101. 'Great to see campaigners elected'

    Chancellor tweets...

  102. Post update

    BBC News journalist tweets...

  103. 'Doing my homework'

    Conservative MP for Lichfield tweets...

  104. More on Blair's resignation

    Tony Blair

    The former UK Prime Minister will stand down next month as Middle East envoy but will still "remain active on the issues and in the region", sources have told the BBC.

    He will “adopt an entirely new approach” for “a dramatic and broad improvement" in the lives of Palestinians and “strengthening broader Arab-Israeli relations.”

  105. 'No answer for housing crisis'

    Emily Thornberry, Labour MP for Islington South and Finsbury, is speaking now. She says while Mr Redwood is a great speaker, she disagrees with almost everything he says.

    She says the Conservatives cannot have expected to win the election - let alone with a majority. She asks where the money will come from for the tax cuts they propose. 

    And there is no answer in the manifesto, or the Queen's Speech, for the housing crisis, she tells MPs. The only answer "is to build more housing", says Ms Thornberry.

  106. Ex-minister's new job

    The Times deputy politics editor tweets...

  107. Confession time

    Conservative MP for Lichfield

  108. Double standards?

    The Sun political correspondent tweets...

  109. 'Borrowing too much'

    Mr Redwood says Labour were "borrowing too much" when the economy was "over-heating" and that the Conservatives have been "trying to put it right ever since". 

  110. 'Grown-up discussion'

    House of Commons

    Parliament

    Conservative backbencher John Redwood is now speaking. He calls for a "more grown-up discussion" on spending, noting that the definition of the word "austerity" has now shifted to mean no further increases on public spending. 

  111. 'Are you sitting comfortably?'

    BuzzFeed senior political correspondent tweets...

  112. 'Mayor in the House'

    BBC political correspondent tweets...

  113. 'Match recommendations'

    House of Commons

    Parliament

    We will judge the Scotland Bill by its contents, says Angus Robertson. He tells MPs the bill must at least match the recommendations of the Smith Commission. 

  114. Fighting for reform

    House of Commons

    Parliament

    Angus Robertson highlights there is not cross-party support for an EU referendum - the SNP opposes it. But the party looks forward to fighting for reform in the institution.

    He says he will seek to introduce a clause that means all countries have to back an exit from the EU. 

  115. 'Shake Westminster up'

    The Spectator assistant editor tweets...

  116. Human Rights

    The SNP will work across the house to protect the Human Rights Act, says Angus Robertson. 

  117. Out of order

    Angus Robertson

    Here's an action shot of some of the SNP MPs clapping while Angus Robertson speaks - just before John Bercow put a stop to it.

  118. 'I agree with the Speaker'

    Conservative MP for Clwyd West tweets...

  119. 'No clapping'

    House of Commons

    Parliament

    A few SNP MPs have been clapping in the chamber this afternoon. John Bercow, the Speaker, warns them against it, saying the convention not to clap is long established. 

  120. Flower of Scotland

    Roses

    You might have noticed the roses SNP MPs are wearing today. They are a tribute to Hugh MacDiarmid's poem, The Little White Rose of Scotland. 

  121. The road to the referendum

    Mark Urban

    Newsnight Defence and Diplomatic Editor

    Cameron giving a speech on Europe

    Momentous politics can sometimes be dealt with by a few words in a Queen's Speech but today's phrasing on Europe showed the ambition of David Cameron's policy platform.

    The operative sentences read out by the Sovereign were: "my government will renegotiate the United Kingdom's relationship with the European Union. And pursue reform of the European Union for the benefit of all member states. Along side this, early legislation will be introduced to provide for an in/out referendum on membership of the European Union before the end of 2017"

    Of these provisions, the last, requiring a short act of Parliament for the Brexit vote itself, will be the easiest to deliver. It was clearly a policy central to the victorious Conservative campaign, and nobody seriously contemplates frustrating the enabling legislation. 

    Read Mark's full blog

  122. SNP votes

    House of Commons

    Parliament

    The SNP will review every piece of legislation and decide whether it impacts Scotland before deciding whether to vote on it, says Angus Robertson. 

  123. SNP leader in Westminster

    Political Editor, The Sunday Times, tweets...

  124. Call for reform

    House of Commons

    Parliament

    Angus Robertson tells MPs the SNP still wants to see electoral reform - despite the first-past-the-post system benefiting the party at the election (it took almost all of Scotland's seats on just over 50% of the vote). 

  125. The forgotten man

    Bloomberg UK politics reporter tweets...

  126. 'Effective opposition'

    House of Commons

    Parliament

    Angus Robertson, the SNP's Westminster leader, is up next. It's the first time the party has been called as the third party in the Commons. He says the party intends to be "effective opposition" to the government. He congratulates the PM on his for his election success - "in England". 

  127. New MPs can't intervene

    The Sunday Post's James Millar tweets...

  128. 'Avoiding questions'

    Labour MP for Walthamstow tweets...

  129. Human rights

    House of Commons

    Parliament

    On human rights reform, David Cameron says MPs should be in no doubt legislation will be introduced. 

  130. 'Worse deal'

    House of Commons

    Parliament

    The SNP advocates a worse deal for Scotland than the rest of the parties in the Commons, says David Cameron. The PM says he is proud to lead the Conservative and Unionist party, with emphasis on the latter.

  131. EVEL vote

    House of Commons

    Parliament

    David Cameron tells the house there will be a vote in the Commons on English Votes for English Laws. 

  132. Called to the bench?

    The Times parliamentary sketchwriter tweets...

  133. 'EU has changed'

    House of Commons

    Parliament

    The EU has changed a great deal since 1975 and it's time the British people once again have their say, says David Cameron. He tells MPs he wants the bill to approve the referendum to move through the Commons quickly.

  134. Not good enough?

    House of Commons

    Parliament

    The PM challenges Labour leadership candidate Andy Burnham on free schools, claiming he supports them locally in his own area but not more widely. 

    Mr Cameron asks if the schools are good enough for Mr Burnham's constituency, why are they not good enough for everyone? 

  135. 'How to go further'

    House of Commons

    Parliament

    David Cameron

    Helping people get a job is the best way to get them out of poverty, David Cameron says. He lists a number of achievements from the last Parliament, saying the challenge for next five years is how to go further. 

  136. Free schools

    House of Commons

    Parliament

    At the heart of education reforms will be to create 500 new free schools, David Cameron tells MPs. Almost half so far have been set up in deprived areas, the PM says, and the scheme is the fastest growing and most successful schools programme in recent history. 

  137. NHS protection

    House of Commons

    Parliament

    David Cameron tells MPs the best way to protect the NHS is to make sure the Conservatives are in government. 

  138. Skinner 'silenced'

    Dennis Skinner

    Amid the usual pomp and ceremony of the Queen's Speech, one light-hearted fixture of the occasion fell noticeably silent.

    Labour MP Dennis Skinner has become synonymous with the State Opening of Parliament for shouting dry jokes once Black Rod has instructed MPs into the House of Lords.

    Read more here.

  139. 'Aspiration'

    House of Commons

    Parliament

    Referring to John Prescott saying he doesn't know what aspiration means, the prime minister says he is happy to spend the next five years showing him.

  140. 'Right choice'

    House of Commons

    Parliament

    The tax lock to be introduced by the government is the "right choice", says David Cameron. He is listing a number of the measures his government will introduce, as listed in the Queen's Speech earlier. 

  141. In the dark over EVEL

    BBC Scotland's Political Correspondent Tim Reid reports

    The government says it will "build" on previous proposals set out by William Hague in the last parliament to allow English MPs to have more say on purely-English matters at Westminster. 

    It means it is now unclear exactly what plans David Cameron has to deal with the so-called West Lothian Question. 

    The Conservative manifesto promised to bring forward proposals within the first 100 days, including an English rate of income tax, but it is not clear when English votes for English laws would come into effect.

  142. Nick who?

    The Spectator political editor tweets...

  143. "Real opposition"

    SNP MP for Gordon tweets...

  144. Best view in Westminster?

    Conservative MP for Lichfield tweets...

  145. Cracking jokes at the despatch box

    CAMERON

    In a joke directed at SNP MP Alex Salmond, David Cameron says the member for Gordon is "remarkably keen" on coming back to Westminster for someone who apparently wants to break away from it (a reference to Mr Salmond's support for Scottish independence).   

  146. 'No time wasted'

    House of Commons

    Parliament

    This is the Queen's Speech for working people from a one nation government, says David Cameron. He tells MPs he has a mandate from the British people and will not waste time getting on with the task. 

  147. 'Building on foundations'

    House of Commons

    Parliament

    David Cameron is on his feet now. He begins too by paying tribute to the armed forces.

    Moving on to the Queen's Speech, he says the proposals are "building on strong foundations" laid in the last Parliament. 

  148. 'Carved in stone'

    House of Commons

    Parliament

    Camera

    Some of the best lines in the Queen's Speech were written by the Labour party, Harriet Harman says. In fact, we carved them on stone, she adds in a light reference to the so-called Ed Stone. 

    The real question is will it improve peoples' lives, she asks David Cameron. That is how he will be judged, she says.

  149. 'Prominent position for Mak'

    Politics Editor, Huffington Post UK, tweets...

  150. Flat lining?

    Conservative Home executive editor tweets...

  151. 'Enhanced powers'

    House of Commons

    Parliament

    On security, Harriet Harman says the party awaits details of wider proposals. Labour will want to to see how any enhanced powers will be checked, she adds. 

  152. Blair resigns

    BBC presenter tweets...

  153. EU referendum

    House of Commons

    Parliament

    Ms Harman confirms Labour will support the government's plan for a referendum on EU membership. She says 16 and 17-year-olds should have a vote - "it's their future too", the acting Labour leader says. 

  154. 'Working on envelope'

    House of Commons

    Parliament

    On the absence of repeal of the Human Rights Act in the Queen's Speech, Ms Harman says the Conservatives are "clearly still working on the back of that envelope". 

  155. Separated at birth?

    World at One politics producer tweets...

  156. 'Fair and lasting changes'

    Ms Harman says the UK's political and constitutional system is fragile. She calls for devolution promises to Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland to be met. Make fair and lasting changes but build consensus, she says. 

    She accuses the PM of setting the English against the Scots during the election. 

  157. 'What women do?'

    Assistant editor, The Spectator tweets...

  158. 'Arbitrary measures'

    House of Commons

    Parliament

    The path to economic property must be with a high-skilled, long-term approach says Harriet Harman, moving to more serious issues. 

    She says her party won't support "more arbitrary measures" to curb workplace rights.

  159. Friendly advice?

    House of Commons

    Parliament

    Harriet Harman congratulates "the Honourable member for Witney" for becoming prime minister - with a shake of her head -  and gives him some handy tips for office: "Beware of the blond on the zip wire."

  160. 'Interim leaders'

    House of Commons

    Parliament

    Congratulating the prime minister, Harriet Harman says: "We are both, by our own admission, interim leaders."

    Turning her attention to SNP Westminster leader Angus Robertson - and rows over seating apparently involving Bolsover MP Dennis Skinner - she says: "The lion may be roaring in Scotland but don't mess with the beast of Bolsover". 

  161. Redford or Clarkson?

    House of Commons

    Parliament

    Harriet Harman

    Harriet Harman says Simon Burns used to resemble a young Robert Redford, but now is more like Jeremy Clarkson. She tells the Commons Mr Burns used to cut something of a dashing figure.   

  162. Armed forces tribute

    House of Commons

    Parliament

    Acting leader Harriet Harman is delivering the Labour's response to the Queen's Speech. She begins by paying tribute to the armed forces.

  163. 'Delighted' about referendum

    Sheryll Murray

    Sheryll Murray says many of her constituents have told her they have been waiting for an EU referendum for a "very long time". 

    She says she is "delighted" it is now happening and welcomes Labour changing its position to support a vote.

  164. 'Surprise result'

    House of Commons

    Parliament

    Sheryll Murray says the election result was a surprise to "so many people". She's listing quite a few of her new Conservative colleagues. 

  165. 'Golf club dinner bad jokes'

    Deputy Editor, BuzzFeed UK

  166. 'Heart lies in Cornwall'

    House of Commons

    Parliament

    Sheryll Murray is up next. She begins by paying tribute to her South East Cornwall constituency, saying it is where her heart lies. 

    Recalling the PM visiting the area, she recalls Mr Cameron being taken to a large cow shed. That's the way we do things in Cornwall, the Conservative MP says. 

  167. 'Commons advertising alien-ness'

    UKIP Clacton MP tweets

  168. No seat, no speech

    The SNP MP for Glasgow East tweets:

  169. 'Bury the hatchet'

    House of Commons

    Parliament

    Bercow
    Image caption: The Speaker laughs along

    Cracking a few jokes about his relationship with the speaker, Mr Burns says it is time the pair "bury the hatchet". The MP recalls an apparent incident when their cars are said to have collided and Mr Bercow apparently told him: "I'm not happy".

    Mr Burns is said to have replied: "Then which one are you?" - a Seven Dwarfs reference, it seems.

    But Mr Burns clarifies the incident didn't actually happen. 

  170. Sympathy from the chamber?

    House of Commons

    Parliament

    John ercow
    Image caption: The Speaker looks away while Simon Burns makes jokes at his expense

    Never again will I sit anxiously when a reshuffle is happening, Mr Burns says. "Old codgers" only have a pass to look forward to, he adds. "Awwww", comes the reply from the chamber.

  171. Kaleidoscope 'Queen's Speech'

    House of Commons

    Parliament

    Continuing with the humble address - traditionally a humorous one -  Mr Burns describes today's as a "kaleidoscope" Queen's Speech. People can try and twist it as much as they want, he says, but all the colours are blues.

    Someone shouts back to him that it sounds like a "rubbish" kaleidoscope.

  172. 'Nerve-wracking'

    House of Commons

    Parliament

    Simon Burns tells the Commons he is finding the experience quite nerve-wracking. But he says wise men always think before they speak. 

    He pays tribute to William Hague, who stood down at the election. He recalls the former foreign secretary introducing him to Hillary Clinton.

  173. 'Tweaking Speaker's tail?'

    Huffington Post UK politics editor tweets...

  174. 'Burcow introduces Burns'

    Political editor, New Statesman, tweets...

  175. 'Great honour'

    Simon Burns

     Conservative MP Simon Burns is the first to speak, proposing the humble address. He says it is a great honour. He says it is a pleasure to be called by the speaker - though he adds he suspects it may be for the last time.   

  176. Ballot for deputy speakers

    House of Commons

    Parliament

    The ballot for the election of Deputy Speakers will be held on 3 June. MPs Sir Roger Gale and George Howarth will act deputy speakers until new ones are appointed.

  177. Pic: Simon Burns in action

    Simon Burns
  178. Bercow reminds MPs on conduct

    John Bercow

    Speaker John Bercow, in opening the debate on the Queen's Speech, reminds members every MP should be treated with courtesy. 

  179. 'Rather lonely'

    House of Commons

    Parliament

    MPs are back in the Commons and about to debate the contents of the Queen's Speech. One of the microphones has just picked up what sounds like the PM saying he feels "rather lonely" at the moment because his wife has gone to Ibiza.

  180. Backing for Cooper

    The Spectator

    Yvette Cooper

    Isabel Hardman says six more Labour MPs are backing shadow home secretary Yvette Cooper's leadership bid. They are: Emily Thornberry, Ian Austin, Jim Cunningham, Karen Buck, Lyn Brown and Steve McCabe.

  181. Overheard at the Queen's Speech

    MP for Glasgow North West tweets...

  182. 'UK gave £800m in aid to Syria'

    BBC Political correspondent

  183. SNP 'will stand firm'

    SNP Westminster leader Angus Robertson says Scotland has been "tied to the wrong priorities" in today's Queen's Speech. 

    Quote Message: Despite Scotland rejecting the Tories agenda completely, we are tied to the wrong priorities - on austerity, Trident, and much more.
    Quote Message: The SNP in Westminster will stand firm against the relentless drive of Tory austerity, and their proposals to slash social security spending by removing benefits from young people and freezing benefits for working families. Scotland did not vote for these cuts and we will work with others across parliament to prevent them."
  184. Hubbub

    House of Commons

    Parliament

    The Commons chamber is incredibly noisy this afternoon as MPs anticipate the first skirmish at the dispatch box between the Prime Minister and the acting leader of the opposition, Harriet Harman. 

  185. 'EVEL by standing order'

    MP for Perth and North Perthshire tweets

  186. Skinner too busy with SNP to heckle

    You might have noticed Labour MP Dennis Skinner missed out his customary Queen's Speech heckle today when Black Rod summoned the Commons. He's told the Telegraph he was busy making sure the SNP didn't take his seat. 

    Quote Message: I was engaged in an activity today to ensure that the Scot Nats weren’t going to take over that front bench. You have to get up very early in the morning to do it. I was up at just after 6 o’clock and I had to do it yesterday."
  187. Spectator front page

  188. Final MPs swear in

    House of Commons

    Parliament

    The House of Commons sits from 2.15pm today and first item of business is the final round of swearing in.

    It's the last chance for members to take the oath or solemn affirmation of parliamentary service before they debate the Queen's Speech.

    First up, Conservative MP David Davis.

  189. CBI reaction

    Here's what the business group's deputy director general, Katja Hall, has to say:

    Quote Message: This is a jam-packed Queen’s Speech, with a strong focus on stepping up a gear on the economic recovery - locking in growth, creating jobs and boosting investment right across the country. With the starting gun on the European Union debate having been fired, the government must be careful not to let it overshadow the rest of its programme."
  190. Redwood wishes Cameron well

    BBC News Channel

    John Redwood

    Eurosceptic Conservative MP John Redwood says he wishes David Cameron well in his attempts to change Britain's relationship with Europe. He adds: 

    Quote Message: If there's nothing good on offer, I will vote for out."
  191. Protection for homeless

    Crisis, the homelessness charity, says cuts to housing benefit for 18 to 21-year-olds "could spell disaster for thousands of young people". 

    Reacting to the Queen's Speech, chief executive Jon Sparkes said:

    Quote Message: Ministers claim they will protect those with nowhere else to go, but the truth is that it's very difficult to tell which young people are completely out of options until it's too late. That's why we're urging the government to make sure all those who can't live with their parents and are at risk of homelessness are protected."
  192. Childcare increase welcomed

    The Family and Childcare Trust has welcomed the expansion of free nursery places outlined in the Queen's Speech. Stephen Dunmore, the group's interim chief executive, said:

    Quote Message: This is really good news for working parents in England whose childcare costs will reduce significantly after their children pass their third birthday."
  193. 'Important to education'

    Head of Policy at Pearson tweets

  194. 'Opening speech to include Essex references'

    Jim Pickard of the Financial Times tweets

  195. 'Thoroughly retrograde' step

    The World at One

    BBC Radio 4

    The SNP's Joanna Cherry, a QC, says the Conservative Party has a "disturbing agenda" in relation to civil liberties and human rights. She says the UK withdrawing from the European Council would be a "thoroughly retrograde" step. 

  196. Councils respond to Queen's Speech

    David Sparks, Chair of the Local Government Association, said:

    Quote Message: The Cities Devolution Bill is great news for our larger cities but we want to make sure the benefits of devolution reach all corners of England. Making decisions at a more local level will bring about huge economic and social benefits and with non-metropolitan England responsible for 56% of economic output the case for wider devolution is clear.
  197. 'Backing business to create jobs'

    Secretary of State for Business, Innovation & Skills tweets

  198. 'Against working people'

    Trades Union Congress media tweets

  199. 'Strengthen relations'

    On the subject of devolution, Institute For Government director Peter Riddell adds:

    Quote Message: The four proposed devolution bills present large constitutional challenges, not only in the nations and regions affected but also for the government of the UK as a whole. There is not going to be one solution for the whole of the UK, but the changes need to be coherent and consistent. The Institute for Government has stressed the need to strengthen relations between the various governments of the UK."
  200. 'Time to get on and deliver'

    Conservative MP for Norwich North tweets

  201. Salmond in Parliament

    Alex Slamond
    Image caption: SNP MP Alex Salmond arriving for the State Opening of Parliament earlier.
  202. 'Divisive' Queen's Speech

    The World at One

    BBC Radio 4

    Liberal Democrat leadership contender Tim Farron says the poorest people in the country are likely to feel the brunt of Tory plans. He says the Queen's Speech is "divisive".

  203. Tax promises

    The World at One

    BBC Radio 4

    Tory MP Priti Patel says her party was very clear during the election campaign that it would not raise VAT, National Insurance or income tax. Her party felt it was right to put that promise into law, she says. 

    Chuka Umunna, the Labour MP, questions how the chancellor will now pay for uncosted promises such as an extra £8bn per year for the NHS. 

  204. 'Maintain pressure on Russia'

    The Foreign Office tweets...

  205. 'Other taxes could rise'

    The World at One

    BBC Radio 4

    Lord Lawson, on the tax lock, tells WATO George Osborne still has plenty of scope to raise other taxes "should he need to do so". 

    Lord Lawson, himself a former chancellor, says he would not have tied his hands in the way Mr Osborne has done.

  206. Former MP sentenced

    Eric Joyce

    Eric Joyce, the former Labour MP for Falkirk,has been given a suspended sentenceafter he was convicted of attacking two teenagers in an "unjustified and unprovoked" assault.

    The 54-year-old was found guilty of two counts of common assault against the boys, aged 14 and 15, in a food store in north London, in October 2014.

    Joyce was sentenced to a 10-week jail term suspended for two years. He said the sentencing was a "fair outcome".

  207. 'Grand promises'

    Peter Riddell, director of the Institute for Government, says the legislative programme set out in the Queen's Speech contained "very ambitious policy commitments".

    He added: "While these are consistent with the Conservatives’ manifesto pledges, they can only be turned into action and positive change through effective implementation. 

    "Too often in the past, grand promises have led to disappointment through an inadequate link between policy-making and implementation." 

  208. 'Right decision'

    Conservative MP for Totnes tweets...

  209. Tax lock 'ties hands'

    The World at One

    BBC Radio 4

    Lord Lawson

    Former Conservative Chancellor Lord Lawson has criticised the government's income tax 'lock' as a restrictive move that has "tied the hands" of the Government. 

    Lord Lawson told the World at One: "I don't think it's a good idea to restrict the Chancellor of the Exchequer's freedom of manoeuvre in this way," as "nobody knows what economic conditions are going to be like".

    Lord Lawson added that he thought George Osborne's promise not to raise income tax, national insurance or VAT in the next Parliament was "clearly done for electoral purposes, not for good government".

    You can hear more of his interview on the World at One programme.

  210. Drama averted

    Iain Watson

    Political correspondent

    David Cameron

    This was the speech David Cameron fully expected the monarch to make. But under different circumstances.

    While he always thought a Conservative majority was possible, the pre-election polls pointed to a minority government.

    If that happened, today would have been a moment of high drama - would the combined forces of Labour and the SNP vote down the Queen's Speech? Would measures have to be withdrawn or would a new, Labour-led minority administration take over? 

    Read more from Iain here.

  211. 'Queuing to pick up'

    BBC East political correspondent tweets...

  212. A 'dangerous and damaging' Speech

    Caroline Lucas

    Green MP Caroline Lucas says the lack of environmental policy shows the government is "failing in its responsibility to future generations."

    She claimed the government missed a "historic opportunity to be a world leader in facing up to the climate crisis" and should have contained measures to scrap fracking and invest in a renewable energy system.

  213. The early bird...

    Tim Reid, Scotland political correspondent

    The new intake of Scottish National Party MPs were up bright and early today in order to reserve their seats in the Commons.

    Because the SNP now have 56 MPs and have been having a battle with Labour over their seating arrangements, the nationalists were queuing up from around 7:30 BST.

    They weren't first in the queue - that's thought to have been the Lib Dem Tom Brake.

    There's always a rush among members to place 'prayer cards' on the green benches at the State Opening of Parliament because the chamber will be packed and there are fewer seats than members.

    The SNP's Pete Wishart said "Our new team are very enthusiastic so we were there early. We have been trying to negotiate with Labour on seating arrangements but they have refused." 

  214. #Queensspeech - Twitter topic du jour

    A French journalist tweets...

  215. Scott 'very disappointed' by Carmichael

    Tavish Scott

    Tavish Scott, the former Leader of the Scottish Liberal Democrats, feels "let down" by Alistair Carmichael's actions, but maintains this is "not the Alistair I know."

    He issued a statement after the MP for Orkney and Shetland admitted approving the leak of a memo during the election campaign, incorrectly suggesting SNP leader Nicola Sturgeon was backing David Cameron for prime minister.

     Mr Scott, the MSP for Shetland, recommended that Mr Carmichael either "listens to his constituents...who will give him a fair hearing" - or resign.

    He said: "Alistair has a long road to recovery with many people. But he should walk that road." 

  216. Unite union boss reacts

    The Times chief political correspondent tweets...

  217. 'Metro mayors' to replace PCCs

    Manchester
    Image caption: Manchester will be the blueprint for other large cities, says Chancellor George Osborne

    Directly-elected "metro mayors" will be able to undertake the functions of Police and Crime Commissioners (PCCs) in England, under plans included in the Queen's Speech.

    PCCs were introduced under the former government to replace the 41 police authorities in England and Wales.

    But the new government wants to give their powers to mayors, as part of wider plans for devolution to cities. Read morehere.

  218. Where is everyone?

    BBC News journalist tweets...

  219. Legislation will 'protect public'

    Getty
    Image caption: The Queen, sat next to Prince Philip, prepares to deliver her Speech

    Legislation to introduce a blanket ban on so-called legal highs featured in the Queen's Speech.   

    Public Health England welcomed the ban saying it would "reduce the easy availability of these substances, but we also crucially need to continue to focus on preventing and treating the harms that they can cause."

    The Local Government Association also welcomed the news, saying, "an outright ban on legal highs will rightly enable the closure of head shops and protect the public from devastating consequences".

  220. Blue collar Queen?

    Allegra Stratton

    Newsnight Political Editor

    It is amusing to see the Queen come to parliament, and amid the dazzling gold, read out a speech designed to make the Tory party seem more ordinary.

    One of the big regrets senior Conservatives have of the last parliament is that they didn't do enough, early enough, to take on the idea they were too close to the rich. 

    That they allowed the idea to take hold that they didn't understand working people.

    Read more from Allegra here.

  221. Full steam ahead

    BBC Look North political editor tweets...

  222. EU referendum 'wonderful'

    UKIP's only MP, Douglas Carswell, has described the introduction of the EU Referendum Bill in the Queen's speech as "wonderful". 

    He told the BBC he was very pleased that, for the first time in a generation, the government had given the electorate the opportunity "to vote to leave" the EU.

    Mr Carswell said that there were many other things in the Queen's speech that he disagreed with, but on the referendum he was very satisfied.

  223. An insider's view

    BBC South political editor tweets...

  224. New powers for Scottish Parliament

    The Queen's Speech has confirmed that the Scottish Parliament will receive new powers to raise 40% of taxes and decide about 60% of public spending.

    The Scotland Bill will allow Holyrood to set the thresholds and rates of income tax.

    A portion of VAT and the whole of Air Passenger Duty will also be under the Edinburgh parliament's control.

    The Barnett Formula, which determines the money the devolved Scottish government receives, will be reduced. Read more here .

  225. 'All eyes on Budget'

    BBC political correspondent tweets...

  226. Bill-by-bill

    The government's legislative plans for the year ahead have been unveiled in the Queen's Speech to Parliament. Here is a bill-by-bill guide to what has been announced - with varied subjects including the EU, employment, enterprise and energy.

  227. Outside view

    Conservative MP for Romford tweets...

  228. A 'pretty good kicking'

    James Landale

    Deputy political editor

    James Landale, BBC deputy political editor, looks to the future parliament and says he suspects the government's most difficult problems will be caused by the House of Lords - considering the large number of Liberal Democrat peers. 

    He says: "If they gang up with the Labour peers... they will give the government a pretty good kicking in the months to come."

  229. More responsibilities for Ofcom?

    BBC technology correspondent

  230. Check the small print

    The Financial Times employment correspondent tweets...

  231. Crowning glory

    Imperial State Crown

    The Imperial State Crown worn by the Queen to deliver the Speech is set with 2868 diamonds as well as 17 sapphires, 11 emeralds and 269 pearls. You can read more about it here

  232. Who's who?

    SNP MP Pete Wishart, talking to Huw Edwards, says that the SNP are now the "real opposition in the house" and claims the party has the firmest mandate. Shadow Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government Emma Reynolds reminds him: "We have many more MPs."

  233. Internet industry reacts

    BBC technology correspondent tweets...

  234. Changes to party funding?

    The Guardian political editor tweets...

  235. Soldiers in the sun

    Grenadier Guards

    This image sums up the sense of ceremony of the day, as Grenadier Guards march along the Mall a little earlier.

  236. Cameron meeting cancelled

    BBC News Europe producer tweets...

  237. Missing items

    BBC technology correspondent tweets...

  238. Thanks for having us

    Prince Charles

    The Prince of Wales and the Duchess of Cornwall wave to the crowds which have gathered in central London as they leave the Houses of Parliament in the Irish State Coach.

  239. New subjects for the Speech?

    Total Politics and Public Affairs News editor tweets...

  240. Back to the palace

    BBC political correspondent tweets...

  241. Departure in a new coach

    Queen

    The Queen leaves in the brand new Diamond Jubilee state coach and the Royal Standard is lowered on the top of the Victoria Tower as she leaves, to the strains of the national anthem. The Prince of Wales and Duchess of Cornwall follow in the Irish State Coach.  

  242. Her job here is done

    Queen

    The Queen chats to MPs Michael Gove and Chris Grayling on her way out.

  243. Strict dress code?

    Sky News political correspondent tweets...

  244. That's not all folks...

    As mentioned below, the Queen says that "other measures will be laid before you". As always at State Opening, not everything the government intends to do is included in the Queen's speech. There will be more to come.

  245. Back to work

    Commons

    The Speaker has led the procession of MPs back to the Commons. Many MPs had stayed in the chamber for the speech, including veteran Labour MP Dennis Skinner.

  246. 'Snoopers' charter' back on agenda

    BBC assistant political editor tweets...

  247. More measures on the way?

    BBC News producer tweets...

  248. A nod to the Lords

    The speech was returned to the purse, carried by Michael Gove. The Queen nodded to the assembled Lords after descending from the throne.

  249. Returning to the robing room

    Queen

    Having delivered her Speech, the Queen leaves the chamber.

  250. Blessings from the Queen

    The Queen concludes the speech by expressing the hope that "blessings of almighty God will rest upon your counsels". With that, the royal procession begins to make its way back through the gallery to the robing room.

  251. Foreign policy and state visits

    We are onto a passage on the government's foreign policy objectives, including the promise of a strategic defence review. The Queen also mentions the fact she is planning state visits to Malta and Germany and will receive the president of China in the UK.

  252. British Bill of Rights

    We are getting to the meat of the Speech now. The promise of referendum on the UK's membership of the EU is there and the Queen also says the government "will bring forward proposals for a British Bill of Rights" - although we understand that this will be a consultation not a promise of legislation. 

  253. Listening intently

    David Cameron

    Prime Minister David Cameron and Chancellor George Osborne watch the Queen's Speech, with House of Commons Speaker John Bercow in front.

  254. Further devolution to Scotland

    We are now onto the constitutional side of the speech, with legislation promised on further devolution to Scotland and proposals for "fairer procedures" for English MPs in the House of Commons. There is also a mention for "metro mayors and the northern powerhouse". 

  255. A Full House

    House of Lords
  256. Unions, education and health

    The Queen is listing a string of measures, including new thresholds for ballots on trade union strikes, new incentives for "coasting" schools and moves towards a seven-day health service.

  257. Economy first

    We start off with measures on the economy. These include ensuring workers on the minimum wage working 30 hours do not pay income tax, and a law blocking any rise in income tax, VAT or national insurance.

  258. Delivering the speech

    Queen
  259. 'Turning their backs'

    The Sunday Times political editor tweets...

  260. No small talk..?

    Leaders

    Prime Minister David Cameron and acting Labour Leader Harriet Harman seen leading MPs to the Lords.

  261. 'One nation'

    The government will adopt a "one nation approach" to government, the Queen says, representing all parts of the UK and promoting financial security and aspiration.

  262. Speech under way

    Lord Chancellor Michael Gove delivers the speech to the Queen on the Lords throne and she begins. 

  263. Full house

    BBC South East political editor tweets...

  264. No heckling please

    BBC assistant political editor tweets...

  265. No chat between leaders

    MPs are now making their way to the Lords. David Cameron is walking alongside acting Labour leader Harriet Harman. The BBC's James Landale said there was not much chat among the two leaders, as is normal on these occasions. 

  266. Knock knock...

    Black Rod

    Black Rod knocking three times on the doors of the House of Commons.

  267. You shall not pass

    The door slams in Black Rod’s face. This symbolises the House of Commons’ independence from the monarch.

    He knocks three times with his ebony stick - you can see the permanent dent been left on the door - before being allowed to enter, and, after bowing three times, summons the MPs to Commons.

    Quote Message: "Mister Speaker, the Queen commands this honourable House to attend Her Majesty immediately in the house of peers."
  268. The Queen processes to the House of Lords

    Queen
  269. Procession of power and authority

    The Royal Procession is led by senior parliamentary and government officers, including the Lord Chancellor, the Lord President of the Privy Council, the Lord Speaker of the House of Lords and the Lord Privy Seal. The Great Sword of State and the Cap of Maintenance, symbols of sovereign power and authority, are carried in front of the Queen.

  270. On their way

    Wearing the Imperial State Crown and the parliamentary robe, the Queen emerges from the robing room before leading the procession through the Royal Gallery, packed with over 600 guests, to the House of Lords Chamber.

  271. Pomp and ceremony

    Queen at State Opening

    The Queen's procession heading to Parliament in the sunshine.

  272. What a romp!

    The Spectator assistant editor tweets...

  273. New clothes

    The Lord Chancellor, Michael Gove, seen a little earlier in his new robes on his way to meet the Queen at the Sovereign's Entrance.

    Michael Gove
  274. Robing in private

    There is a brief pause in proceedings as the Queen has now entered the robing room. Here she'll be dressed in her robes and will put on the Imperial State Crown.

  275. The Queen and Duke of Edinburgh arrive at Parliament

    Queen
  276. The Lord President of the Council awaits

    Chris Grayling

    Chris Grayling, the Lord President of the Council, waits for the Queen. Former Deputy Prime Minister Nick Clegg fulfilled this role in the opening of the last parliament.

  277. Prince of Wales and the Duchess of Cornwall arrive

    Prince Charles

    The Prince of Wales and Duchess of Cornwall, who traveled in the Irish state coach, are taking part in the event for the third successive year.

  278. Precious cargo

    Crown

    The Lord Great Chamberlain takes the Imperial State Crown to the Robing Room.

  279. Familiar faces

    Floella Benjamin and Robert Winston

    Liberal Democrat peer Baroness Benjamin of Beckenham in Kent - also known as children's television presenter Floella Benjamin - is seated next to Labour peer Lord Winston.

  280. House of Lords awaits

    House of Lords

    Members of the House of Lords have taken their places ahead of the Queen's arrival.

  281. BreakingQueen leaves Buckingham Palace

    The Queen

    The Queen and Duke of Edinburgh leave Buckingham Palace by carriage, travelling to the Houses of Parliament.

  282. The State Crown arrives

    Westminster

    A birds-eye view of the State Crown arriving by carriage at the Palace of Westminster.

  283. #QueensSpeech

    BBC Trending presenter tweets...

  284. Flags on display

    Newsnight politics producer tweets...

  285. Deal done?

    BBC assistant political editor tweets...

  286. A good old-fashioned security check

    Yeoman Warders

    Bright and early this morning, the Yeoman Warders did their ceremonial search of the Westminster cellars - a tradition dating back to the 1605 plot to blow up Parliament. 

    The police then carried out a more thorough security sweep.

  287. State Crown

    The British Monarchy tweets...

  288. Timetable of events

    Here's what we can expect over the next few hours (all times BST):  

    * Royal Procession – The Queen leaves Buckingham Palace in a carriage procession, making its way through the streets to the Houses of Parliament.

    * 11:15 - The Queen arrives at the Sovereign's Entrance

    * 11:30 - The Queen takes the throne in the House of Lords before reading the speech from the throne in the House of Lords.

    * 14:30 - Motion for Humble Address. The Commons thank the Queen for the speech and both Houses begin debating the government's legislative programme

  289. Broadcasting from the chamber?

    BBC political correspondent tweets...

  290. 'Taken hostage'

    Kris Hopkins

    Around about now, a Government whip will arrive at Buckingham Palace to be "kidnapped" by the Palace - he is being "held hostage" to ensure the Queen's safe return. 

    This harks back to a time when the monarch and Parliament were on less cordial terms. Today the role of the "hostage" falls to Keighley and Ilkley MP Kris Hopkins.

  291. Cameron leaving Number 10

    David Cameron

    The prime minister makes his way to a waiting car before being driven to Parliament.

  292. BreakingPM heads to Parliament

    David Cameron leaves 10 Downing Street for the short journey to Parliament ahead of Queen's Speech.

  293. Blue skies - and empty streets

    ITV political correspondent tweets...

  294. Quentin Letts on the Queen's Speech

    Daily Politics tweets...

  295. What the parties say

    Prime Minister David Cameron says his programme for the year ahead means that "wherever you live you can have the chance of a good education, a decent job, a home of your own and the peace of mind that comes from being able to raise a family and enjoy a secure retirement".

    But Labour's acting leader Harriet Harman says the Conservatives want to "set the nations of the country against each other" and threaten "basic rights at work".

    And Nick Clegg, responding for the Lib Dems, will criticise moves to replace the Human Rights Act, saying it is "dispiriting - if pretty unsurprising" that the Conservative government is "turning its back" on the liberal stance championed by his party in the coalition.

  296. In numbers

    This is the 62nd speech that the Queen has delivered in person but the 64th of her reign - she did not attend Parliament in 1959 or 1963 as she was pregnant. 

    Her shortest speech came in 2009 and was 737 words long. The longest, in 1999, had 1,763 words. 

    The average length of her speech - so far - has been nine minutes and 50 seconds.  

  297. Clegg's 'lonely intervention'

    The Spectator

    Nick Clegg

    Former Lib Dem Deputy Prime Minister Nick Clegg will respond to the Queen's Speech on behalf of the party this afternoon.

    The Spectator's Isabel Hardman asks whether there could be "a sadder sight" than watching his "lonely intervention" on behalf of his "tiny" party? But she cautions that the Conservatives "shouldn't laugh too much" at him.

    Quote Message: Given he did enjoy a close working relationship with David Cameron, Clegg can make an intervention that provides an insight – and presumably not a particularly flattering one – into the way the Prime Minister works and his priorities which may contradict his ‘One Nation’ focus today."
  298. Good move?

    BBC presenter tweets...

  299. Staying in 'will be Yes campaign'

    UK and EU flags

    A bill paving the way for an in/out referendum on Britain's EU membership is expected in today's Queen's Speech. The BBC understands voters will be asked to choose Yes if they want to remain in the union or No to leave.

    BBC political correspondent Ross Hawkins said the precise wording of the question had not yet been confirmed. But it is expected to allow those who want Britain to remain in the EU to style themselves as the Yes campaign, with the question expected to be along the lines of: "Should the UK remain a member of the EU?"

    More here.

  300. Men in tights

    The Queen's Speech in June 2014

    It is "the ultimate show of pomp, ceremony - and men in tights", says the BBC's Ellie Price, who describes the speech as "a shopping list of things to come". Watch her guide to the day's events here.

  301. Speakers line up

    HuffingtonPost executive political editor tweets...

  302. Tories 'retreated' on human rights bill

    Today Programme

    BBC Radio 4

    Lord Falconer

    Lord Falconer says the consultation shows the Conservatives have "retreated" on their British Bill of Rights proposal, which suggests "they are aware that these things cannot be done".

    He says if a British Bill of Rights does make it to the House of Lords, as "the protector of the constitution", it would have to consider "very carefully whether [the move] would deprive this country of basic rights that the whole of Europe thinks we should have".

  303. Human rights plan 'bad idea'

    Today Programme

    BBC Radio 4

    Shadow lord chancellor Lord Falconer says reports that Conservative plans to repeal the Human Rights Act will be delayed to allow a consultation are "a very very good thing". He says the proposal was "a very bad idea that couldn't be implemented".

    Quote Message: What the Conservatives appear to have been suggesting is that you could have only the rights the government approved of and you could still stay in the European Convention on Human Rights. Well I don't think you can do that. I think it would make the UK look like a state that didn't properly adhere to human rights."
  304. Benn on effective opposition

    BBC News Channel

    Hilary Benn on 27 May 2015

    Hilary Benn is asked whether Labour being without a permanent leader at the moment puts the party in a difficult position to form an effective opposition. He thinks not, saying "it's perfectly possible" to hold the government to account while at the same time running a new leader contest.

  305. 'A foretaste of what's to come'

    BBC News Channel

    A consultation, rather than new legislation, is expected in relation to Conservative plans to scrap the Human Rights Act and replace it with a British Bill of Rights, BBC political correspondent Ross Hawkins has said.

    Shadow communities secretary Hilary Benn says this shows the Conservatives are having difficulties on this matter - and predicts it is "a foretaste of what is to come" for David Cameron's government.

  306. Full steam ahead

    Norman Smith

    Assistant political editor

    What will strike most people is just what a large and substantial Queen's Speech we face today. In recent years we've had rather paltry offerings. Today we are going to get a torrent of bills - more than 20 in all. 

    Also the indications are that Mr Cameron wants to press ahead, at speed. He is not going to hang around. 

    So a lot of this legislation is going to be fast-tracked, in part because he knows now is his time of maximum opportunity when the opposition parties are flat on the deck, out for the count, and he is, in effect, master of all he surveys.

  307. What will feature in the speech?

    The Queen and Prince Philip during the 2010 State Opening of Parliament

    This will be the Queen's 62nd speech to Parliament, and it will set out the first all-Conservative legislative programme in almost 20 years.

    It is expected to be delivered by the sovereign just after 11:30 BST, in the presence of MPs, peers and other dignitaries in the House of Lords. 

    A list of the bills expected to feature can be found here.

  308. Off message?

    HuffingtonPost executive political editor tweets...

  309. Getting ready

    A BBC News producer tweets...

  310. Whose speech is it anyway?

    Nick Robinson

    Political editor

    The Queen arriving for the State Opening of Parliament in June 2014

    Appearances can be deceptive.

    It may be Her Majesty that travels from the Palace to Parliament to deliver it.

    It may be accompanied by the finery and flummery of a great State occasion.

    It maybe called the Queen's Speech but it is, of course, not really her's at all, but the Prime Minister's.

    Read more from Nick.

  311. Truss: I'd vote to repeal fox hunt ban

    Today Programme

    BBC Radio 4

    Pressed over whether there'll be a free vote on repealing the fox hunting ban, Ms Truss promises that there will be a government bill in government time. She says she would vote in favour of repeal.

  312. Truss: We want to bring UK together

    Today Programme

    BBC Radio 4

    Environment Secretary Liz Truss

    Asked whether the government would impose a British Bill of Rights on the devolved nations, even if they did not support it, Liz Truss says "we do need to make sure we do this on a UK-wide basis".

    Ms Truss tells the programme that today's speech will show the Conservatives want to "bring the UK together". The government wants to follow through on the recommendations of the Smith Commission on Scottish devolution, with "additional measures" for Wales, she adds.

  313. British Bill of Rights?

    Today Programme

    BBC Radio 4

    Liz Truss says she won't speculate about whether there will be a British Bill of Rights in the Queen's Speech, but she points out it was promised in the Conservative manifesto. "We will absolutely do it, it's a manifesto commitment," she adds.

  314. 'One nation's Queen Speech'

    Today Programme

    BBC Radio 4

    Environment Secretary Liz Truss says this will be a "one nation Queen's Speech" that is about achieving "security and opportunity" for everyone, with measures on childcare, education reforms and a pledge not to raise taxes. 

  315. Musical chairs

    BBC assistant political editor tweets...

  316. Good morning

    Hello and welcome to our live rolling coverage of the Queen's Speech, which marks the formal State Opening of Parliament. The sovereign will set out the government's legislative agenda for the year ahead. We'll bring you live updates as it unfolds - and all the reaction to the event.