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23/11/2004
Security measures at heart of Queen's speech
Anti-crime and terror measures, ID cards and education provision are at the heart of the government's legislative schedule for the coming parliamentary session.
At the state opening of Parliament today, the Queen delivered her speech setting out the broad areas at which this sessions 32 Bills will be aimed.
The speech maintained Labour's commitment to its image as a visionary and reforming administration – the government will push forward with reform of the NHS, reform of the Welfare State and reform of the constitution.
The Queen's speech contained a broad sweep of government pledges to: "pursue policies which entrench economic stability and promote growth and prosperity"; "reform the public services to ensure they provide more security and opportunity for all"; and extend "educational opportunity so that all individuals can realise their full potential and the country can benefit from the talents of all its people".
More specifically, the government intends to introduce its identity cards scheme, and establish the Serious Organised Crime Agency – ensuring the powers the police and others have to fight crime "will be strengthened". In particular, the Bill will introduce new measures to deal with harassment by animal rights extremists.
Drug abuse, drug-related crime, and the disorder and violence that can arise from alcohol abuse will also be addressed in the legislative programme.
The government will assume the Presidency of the EU in July and has said it will use the opportunity to work towards building "an increasingly prosperous and secure Europe".
In addition to the EU presidency, Britain will also hold the G8 Presidency in 2005, which will include working on the issues relating to Africa and climate change.
Internationally, the Queen's speech touched upon Labour's intention to work to prevent terrorism and the proliferation of nuclear, chemical and biological weapons, deal with the problems of drug smuggling and international crime; strengthen Nato, support the government of Iraq and ensure that elections can be held in January.
(gmcg/sp)
At the state opening of Parliament today, the Queen delivered her speech setting out the broad areas at which this sessions 32 Bills will be aimed.
The speech maintained Labour's commitment to its image as a visionary and reforming administration – the government will push forward with reform of the NHS, reform of the Welfare State and reform of the constitution.
The Queen's speech contained a broad sweep of government pledges to: "pursue policies which entrench economic stability and promote growth and prosperity"; "reform the public services to ensure they provide more security and opportunity for all"; and extend "educational opportunity so that all individuals can realise their full potential and the country can benefit from the talents of all its people".
More specifically, the government intends to introduce its identity cards scheme, and establish the Serious Organised Crime Agency – ensuring the powers the police and others have to fight crime "will be strengthened". In particular, the Bill will introduce new measures to deal with harassment by animal rights extremists.
Drug abuse, drug-related crime, and the disorder and violence that can arise from alcohol abuse will also be addressed in the legislative programme.
The government will assume the Presidency of the EU in July and has said it will use the opportunity to work towards building "an increasingly prosperous and secure Europe".
In addition to the EU presidency, Britain will also hold the G8 Presidency in 2005, which will include working on the issues relating to Africa and climate change.
Internationally, the Queen's speech touched upon Labour's intention to work to prevent terrorism and the proliferation of nuclear, chemical and biological weapons, deal with the problems of drug smuggling and international crime; strengthen Nato, support the government of Iraq and ensure that elections can be held in January.
(gmcg/sp)
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Northern Ireland WeatherToday:It will be cloudy again throughout the day. Mainly dry in the morning, but patchy drizzle in places, becoming more widespread and persistent in the afternoon. Freshening southwesterly winds. Maximum temperature 12 °C.Tonight:Cloudy with a spell of heavy rain pushing south through late evening and the early hours, followed by some clear spells. Minimum temperature 6 °C.
