British Queen's speech sets out legislative agenda for gov't

British Queen Elizabeth II on Wednesday outlined the proposed policies and legislative agenda for her government in the coming year at the state opening of parliament in London.

"My government's legislative program will continue to deliver on its long-term plan to build a stronger economy and a fairer society," the Queen said in her speech to both houses of the British Parliament.

Focusing on strengthening the British economy and delivering economic recovery, the Queen said her ministers "will continue to reduce the country's deficit, helping to ensure that mortgage and interest rates remain low."

A total of 11 bills were mentioned in the Queen's speech, in addition to three draft bills to be examined by the lawmakers.

The bills, making up the legislative agenda in the final year of the coalition government, covered small business, national insurance, infrastructure, pension reform, childcare, modern slavery, serious crime, recall of Members of Parliament and so on.

In her speech, the Queen outlined an updated Charter for Budget Responsibility to be brought forward to "ensure that future governments spend taxpayers' money responsibly."

The speech also included planned legislation "to help make the United Kingdom the most attractive place to start, finance and grow a business ..by cutting bureaucracy and enabling them to access finance."

A new bill will be introduced to boost investment in infrastructure and reform planning law to improve Britain's economic competitiveness.

"The bill will enhance the United Kingdom's energy independence and security by opening up access to shale and geothermal sites and maximizing North Sea resources," the Queen said.

The British monarch added that her government will increase housing supply and home ownership by reforming the planning system, enabling new locally-led garden cities and supporting small house building firms.

In a joint statement ahead of the Queen's speech, British Prime Minister David Cameron and Deputy Prime Minister Nick Clegg said "This Queen's Speech marks the next big step in our long-term plan for Britain. Its aim: to secure the recovery for our country. We want a Britain that earns its keep and makes its way in the world, with a strong economy, a fair society and peace of mind for all that live here."

"Four years on, our parties are still governing together and still taking bold steps. Four years on, no-one can deny the progress we have made," they added, listing a variety of economic and political achievements under the coalition government, including reduced deficit and increased employment.

The state opening of parliament marks the formal start of a new parliamentary year. It is the only regular occasion for the three constituent parts of Parliament, including the sovereign, the House of Lords and the House of Commons, to meet.

Traditions of the state opening and the British monarch's speech date back to the 16th century, according to the British Parliament.