Boris Johnson has put a crackdown on violent and foreign criminals at the centre of the first Queen’s Speech of his premiership in a bid to “restore confidence” in the justice system.
Filled with pomp and ceremony, the speech sets out the Government’s agenda and outlines its proposed policies.
It is the only regular time when the three parts which make up Parliament – the Sovereign, the House of Lords and the House of Commons – come together.
Take a look at the pomp and pageantry in pictures.
The King’s Troop Royal Horse Artillery proceed past Buckingham Palace ahead of the State Opening of Parliament. Credit: PAThe ceremony has existed in its current form since 1852, when the Palace of Westminster was rebuilt after the 1834 fire. Credit: PAThe ceremonial event began with the Queen’s procession from Buckingham Palace to Parliament, during which she was escorted by the Household Cavalry. Credit: Yui Mok/PAA search dog patrols the Royal Gallery. Credit: PAMembers of the House of Lords arrive in the Chamber East Gallery. Credit: PAThe scene in the House of Lords ahead of the State Opening of Parliament. Credit: PAThe Regalia: the Sword of State, the Imperial State Crown and the Cap of Maintenance are conveyed to the Palace of Westminster. Credit: PAMembers of the public watched the speech on screens near Canada Gate. Credit: PAMembers of the Household Cavalry arrive. Credit: PALeader of the House of Commons Jacob Rees-Mogg in the Central Lobby. Credit: Daniel Leal-Olivas/PAThe Imperial State Crown is carried through the Sovereign’s Entrance. Credit: Hannah McKay/PAThe Queen, the Prince of Wales and the Duchess of Cornwall during the State Opening of Parliament. Credit: PAThe speech included 26 Bills. Credit: Toby Melville/PABoris Johnson listens to the speech, along with other MPs. Credit: House of Commons/PACarrie Symonds and Stanley Johnson, the partner and father of Prime Minister Boris Johnson, also attended the speech. Credit: PA
