Every major point in the King’s Speech as update given on digital IDs

The plan has previously proved controversial

Rather than the usual Prime Ministers Questions (PMQs) we are accustomed to on a Wednesday, we instead got the King's Speech.

It comes at a convenient time for Keir Starmer who would have undoubtably suffered a grilling in Commons if PMQs were going ahead.

It has been a tough week for the PM who has been facing mounting pressure from outside and within his own party to resign following the disastrous local elections for Labour.

What is the King's Speech?

The King opened a new session of Parliament today. Credit: Getty.

The King's Speech is part of a centuries-old tradition which marks the beginning of a new parliamentary session and serves as an opportunity for the government's legislative plans to be laid out.

The speech is given by the monarch in the House of Lords and is written by the government.

Its roots can be traced back to the 16th century with the current format of the ceremony dating from 1852.

What were the major talking points?

In his speech, the King effectively just reconveys the legislation already in motion and being worked on by the government which, of course, has little to do with himself.

This ranges from everything from the recent announcement of the nationalisation of steel to the much-spoken about digital IDs.

The King said: "An increasingly dangerous and volatile world threatens the United Kingdom, with the conflict in the Middle East only the most recent example. Every element of the nation's energy, defence and economic security will be tested.

"My government will respond to this world with strength and aim to create a country that is fair for all.

"My ministers will take decisions that protect the energy, defence and economic security of the United Kingdom for the long term.

"They will defend the British values of decency, tolerance and respect for difference under our common flag, and they will harness the potential of the pride felt across this country for its communities."

He then spoke on the specifics, mentioning the improving trade relations which are "vital for the United Kingdom's economic security, for significantly raising economic growth, and for lowering prices for working people".

This includes bill to "strengthen ties with the European Union", to "tackle late payments" to small businesses, and to "reduce the burden of unnecessary regulation".

He mentioned bills that will "unlock the benefits of airports expansion" and speed up other important infrastructure plans such as Northern Powerhouse Rail.

A bill to nationalise British Steel will also be introduced.

He touched upon reforms to the police, the NHS and criminal justice system as well as the immigration and asylum system.

There were also mentions of fixing the water industry and establishing Great British Railways.

There will also be bills focused on education.

Digital IDs

What the Digital ID could look like. Credit: Gov UK.

Things have quietened down on the Digital ID front in recent months, however, the King has brought the project back into the spotlight.

He confirmed that legislation will be introduced by the government to bring in controversial digital ID plans

"My ministers will also proceed with the introduction of Digital ID that will modernise how citizens interact with public services," the King said.