Britain's Prince Charles took centre stage in the State Opening of Parliament on Tuesday but once the ceremonial regalia was packed away and he was at home in Clarence House, attention turned to the bills the government wants to make law.
The Queen’s Speech outlines the government’s priorities. Prime Minister Boris Johnson will hope these help to shore up his leadership, which has been rocked by partygate and heavy losses for his Conservative Party in the local elections.
This time around there are 38 bills. Among them:
A National Security Bill, under which security services will acquire additional powers to tackle foreign spies and attempts to influence British democracy, with particular reference to Chinese interference.
An Online Safety Bill to better regulate content appearing on the internet. Carried over from the previous parliamentary session, the legislation includes measures aimed at forcing online giants to take responsibility for protecting users and removing illegal content.
A Data Reform Bill will replace European Union rules allowing streamlined data protection laws that cut red tape and reduces burdens on businesses.
A Modern Slavery Bill will aim to increase support for victims of human trafficking and slavery, including by toughening punishments for perpetrators. The Prince of Wales said the government would take action to prevent "dangerous and illegal Channel crossings" and tackle the criminal gangs who profit from such journeys.
A Public Order Bill to try to force through a crackdown on “guerrilla protests”, with jail sentences and unlimited fines for those who disrupt vital national infrastructure that can include airports and oil depots.
The Schools Bill will give the education regulator powers to crack down on unregistered schools in England and truancy levels.
Two higher education bills, which can change eligibility for student loans and promise to protect freedom of speech on campuses.
The Economic Crime and Corporate Transparency Bill to strengthen investigatory powers and increase corporate transparency.
The Energy Security Bill aims to boost renewable energy options for the country.
Changes in the Harbours (Seafarers' Remuneration) Bill aim to ensure marine companies pay the UK’s minimum wage.
A Levelling up and Regeneration Bill gives councils new planning powers to help rejuvenate high streets.
A Transport Bill to regulate railway services across the UK, which can be overcrowded on popular routes or plagued by cancelled trains.
A Brexit Freedoms Bill to overhaul EU laws now that the UK has left the bloc.
Tentative schedule of 2017/18 Ashes series
1st Test November 23-27, The Gabba, Brisbane
2nd Test December 2-6, Adelaide Oval, Adelaide
3rd Test Dcember 14-18, Waca, Perth
4th Test December 26-30, Melbourne Cricket Ground, Melbourne
5th Test January 4-8, Sydney Cricket Ground, Sydney
Tearful appearance
Chancellor Rachel Reeves set markets on edge as she appeared visibly distraught in parliament on Wednesday.
Legislative setbacks for the government have blown a new hole in the budgetary calculations at a time when the deficit is stubbornly large and the economy is struggling to grow.
She appeared with Keir Starmer on Thursday and the pair embraced, but he had failed to give her his backing as she cried a day earlier.
A spokesman said her upset demeanour was due to a personal matter.
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Tips on buying property during a pandemic
Islay Robinson, group chief executive of mortgage broker Enness Global, offers his advice on buying property in today's market.
While many have been quick to call a market collapse, this simply isn’t what we’re seeing on the ground. Many pockets of the global property market, including London and the UAE, continue to be compelling locations to invest in real estate.
While an air of uncertainty remains, the outlook is far better than anyone could have predicted. However, it is still important to consider the wider threat posed by Covid-19 when buying bricks and mortar.
Anything with outside space, gardens and private entrances is a must and these property features will see your investment keep its value should the pandemic drag on. In contrast, flats and particularly high-rise developments are falling in popularity and investors should avoid them at all costs.
Attractive investment property can be hard to find amid strong demand and heightened buyer activity. When you do find one, be prepared to move hard and fast to secure it. If you have your finances in order, this shouldn’t be an issue.
Lenders continue to lend and rates remain at an all-time low, so utilise this. There is no point in tying up cash when you can keep this liquidity to maximise other opportunities.
Keep your head and, as always when investing, take the long-term view. External factors such as coronavirus or Brexit will present challenges in the short-term, but the long-term outlook remains strong.
Finally, keep an eye on your currency. Whenever currency fluctuations favour foreign buyers, you can bet that demand will increase, as they act to secure what is essentially a discounted property.
The Dark Blue Winter Overcoat & Other Stories From the North
Edited and Introduced by Sjón and Ted Hodgkinson
Pushkin Press
Under 19 World Cup
Group A: India, Japan, New Zealand, Sri Lanka
Group B: Australia, England, Nigeria, West Indies
Group C: Bangladesh, Pakistan, Scotland, Zimbabwe
Group D: Afghanistan, Canada, South Africa, UAE
UAE fixtures
Saturday, January 18, v Canada
Wednesday, January 22, v Afghanistan
Saturday, January 25, v South Africa
Racecard:
6.30pm: Mazrat Al Ruwayah (PA) | Group 2 | US$55,000 (Dirt) | 1,600 metres
7.05pm: Meydan Sprint (TB) | Group 2 | $250,000 (Turf) | 1,000m
7.40pm: Firebreak Stakes | Group 3 | $200,000 (D) | 1,600m
8.15pm: Meydan Trophy | Conditions (TB) | $100,000 (T) | 1,900m
8.50pm: Balanchine | Group 2 (TB) | $250,000 (T) | 1,800m
9.25pm: Handicap (TB) | $135,000 (D) | 1,200m
10pm: Handicap (TB) | $175,000 (T) | 2,410m.
Desert Warrior
Starring: Anthony Mackie, Aiysha Hart, Ben Kingsley
Director: Rupert Wyatt
Rating: 3/5
THE BIO: Martin Van Almsick
Hometown: Cologne, Germany
Family: Wife Hanan Ahmed and their three children, Marrah (23), Tibijan (19), Amon (13)
Favourite dessert: Umm Ali with dark camel milk chocolate flakes
Favourite hobby: Football
Breakfast routine: a tall glass of camel milk
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match info
Manchester United 3 (Martial 7', 44', 74')
Sheffield United 0
