What was in the King’s speech for employers?

What are the main talking points for employers from the speech last month?

Last month’s State opening of parliament saw the continuation of a 15th century tradition bringing the Crown, Peers and MPs together to set out what ministers want to pass in the next parliamentary session.

Energy, defence and economic security for the longer term were the main key themes, but what may be important to employers?

Employment issues

Further government endorsement of apprenticeships may make this route from education to qualification more attractive for both employees and employers.
Digital IDs could help pre-employment checks, if the bill can be passed.
The government will champion the rights of women and girls to promote their full economic potential. An encouraging position, but no mention yet as to how this will be achieved.
Mandatory ethnicity and disability pay gap reporting for employers with 250 or more employees is contained in draft legislation currently before Parliament.

There was no specific mention of increased costs to employers, which will be a relief to all, given the already endured increases in employer National Insurance costs and the National Minimum Wage.

Other areas of interest for employers in the Kings Speech include:

Training issues

Government will consider the Milburn Review (Young People and Work Report). Launched in late 2025 by former Health Secretary Alan Milburn, it is an independent government inquiry into the rising number of 16-24 year-olds not in education, employment, or training (NEETs) in the UK. This is part of the government’s attempt to address youth unemployment and training, which in turn can help employers as well as the workforce.
An introduction of reforms in school with a focus on special education needs was announced.

Economic issues

New trading opportunities from strengthening ties with Europe will be of significant interest. Politically challenging but navigating a successful outcome could generate dramatic economic improvement.
An Energy Independence Bill to scale up homegrown renewable energy has been announced. No mention of drilling in the North Sea will continue to frustrate the oil and gas industry, although not an unexpected position.
A cyber security bill will bring data centres into scope of the UK’s cyber security reporting regime.
Late payments – the Government has stated it will legislate to tackle late B2B payments, seeking to avoid businesses closing.

The King's Speech gave an outline of 37 bills, including eight previously introduced. The details will follow.

If the King's Speech has raised any questions about what the changes may mean for your business, our team is here to help.