MNI BRIEF: UK Govt To Outline Post-Covid Legislative Agenda

Tuesday's State Opening of Parliament will see the UK government outline its legislative programme for the upcoming parliamentary session, with expectations that around 25 new bills will be contained, giving a clear indication of the direction Prime Minister Boris Johnson is looking travel.

Ministers have indicated that the speech will focus on a delayed environment bill ahead of the Cop26 gathering on climate change later in the year. It is also expected to see the inclusion of bills focusing on skills training and post-16 education -- aimed at both 'levelling up' inequality across the country and helping in the post-pandemic economic recovery.

The speech, normally held in full state splendor, will be a pared down affair due to Covid-19 restrictions, should start at around 1130BST by the Queen. It will also include notice of a bill to replace the Fixed Term Parliament Act, as the government looks to regain the ability to hold a national election at a time of its choosing.