What is the State Opening of Parliament? Everything it involves and why it happens
- On Wednesday, May 13, King Charles III presided over the State Opening of Parliament, marking the formal beginning of the parliamentary year. The King delivered a speech outlining the Labour Government's legislative priorities for the upcoming session.
- With roots in the 1605 Gunpowder Plot, the ceremony includes the Yeoman of the Guard searching the Palace of Westminster for explosives. The Monarch then reads a government-authored speech outlining policy measures.
- Activists from the group Republic held signs asking, "Did you know?" regarding allegations against Andrew as the procession passed. Other groups shouted "free Palestine" along the route toward Westminster.
- The King's Speech introduced headline measures, including legislation to pursue closer ties with Europe and plans to nationalize British Steel. The government also intends bills on energy security and renters' rights.
- Parliament will spend five to six days debating the address, with votes on amendments expected the following week. No Westminster Hall debates will occur until the King's Speech debate concludes.
23 Articles
23 Articles
Queen Camilla Practices “Visual Diplomacy” in 206-Year-Old Crown Made Up of 1,333 Diamonds at State Opening of Parliament
She joined her husband, King Charles, for the event on May 13.Queen Camilla at the State Opening of Parliament on May 13, 2026.Credit: GettyThe GistQueen Camilla put on a dazzling display at the State Opening of Parliament alongside her husband King Charles on May 13.She wore the George IV State Diadem, which dates all the way back to 1820.The piece is made up of 1,333 diamonds and contains nods to England, Scotland, and Ireland.Queen Camilla at…
State Opening of Parliament should focus minds of MPs as to why they are there
The State Opening of Parliament is always accompanied by pomp and pageantry but yesterday the dark cloud of political intrigue also cast its shadow as the pressure continued to build on the Prime Minister.
Labour MP makes Burnham quip during State Opening of Parliament
There was a humorous moment during the State Opening of Parliament when a Labour MP delivered an Andy Burnham quip. The last few days have seen intense speculation around Keir Starmer’s future as Labour leader, with dozens of the party’s MPs calling on him to resign. There’s also been great speculation about who might replace Starmer, with those on the left said to be keen to see Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham secure a return to parliament so he …
In Pictures: Pomp, pageantry and political intrigue at opening of Parliament
The King’s Speech came at a time of high tension at Westminster with Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer facing calls to quit. Westminster was full of pomp and pageantry on Wednesday as the State Opening of Parliament and the King’s Speech took place after days of Labour infighting and intrigue. The ceremonial occasion marks the formal beginning of the parliamentary year at a time of peril for Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer as he faces growing call…
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