The King’s Speech is set to be a significant moment in the parliamentary calendar. It is when the prime minister outlines their government’s mission and the laws they plan to pass. However, this year, the spotlight will be on King Charles III rather than Rishi Sunak for two reasons.
Firstly, the new monarch delivering the King’s Speech after over seven decades holds great symbolism. It marks the transition from the Elizabethan era to the Carolean age, reminding us of the passage of time.
Secondly, Mr. Sunak’s situation is challenging. His first King’s Speech as prime minister is more about maintaining his position than presenting a visionary plan. He is running out of time to enact new laws before the next election, and he faces resistance from within his own party.
The King’s Speech is not expected to be a grand plan for government but rather a continuation of the prime minister’s existing agenda. It emphasizes long-term decision-making, including economic growth, societal strengthening, and national interests.
Some colleagues, however, believe that the speech lacks a coherent vision and fails to address key issues such as the cost of living and the NHS. They criticize Mr. Sunak for not taking bolder actions on housing and for missed opportunities to appeal to younger voters.
Despite the criticisms, Mr. Sunak aims to use the King’s Speech to create divisions with the Labour Party on issues like net zero and strikes. He hopes to showcase his values and put Labour on the defensive.
Labour insiders claim they are not concerned about these attacks and argue that the government’s approach demonstrates its disconnect from voters’ concerns. They question whether voters want a government that focuses on dividing lines rather than addressing pressing issues.
While Westminster discusses the content of the speech, the prime minister faces mounting problems. The COVID inquiry has revealed government failures in handling the pandemic, allegations of mishandling rape allegations involving an MP have emerged, and there is growing dissatisfaction among some MPs with the home secretary’s language and actions.
Some Conservative MPs fear that regardless of Mr. Sunak’s efforts, the public has already tuned out and that this may be his first and final King’s Speech.