Norfolk foodbank says "bold and structural changes" needed from King's Speech

Both Houses of Parliament will debate the speech's content and MPs will vote on it

King Charles III and Queen Camilla, State Opening of Parliament, (November 7, 2023)
Author: Tom ClabonPublished 17th Jul 2024

A foodbank in Norfolk is telling us that bold and structural changes are needed from the Government to ensure fewer people are needing to rely on charities for help.

It comes ahead of the King's Speech today - where His Majesty will officially open Parliament and set out Sir Keir Starmer's plans to pass more than 35 bills.

"The need keeps on growing and it will continue, unless serious action is taken"

Helen Gilbert is from King's Lynn foodbank:

"We're really encouraged by ambitions to change planning rules and build more homes. There's a real lack of affordable housing in West Norfolk.

"Support for those who really need it, is really vital. We're seeing increase numbers of people who are coming to us with rising debt on rent and utilities".

"We've given out 12% more food parcel this year, compared to last. The need keeps on growing and it will continue, unless serious action is taken."

What do we know about this King's Speech?

Here's what we know will be included so far:

-New laws will prioritise growth, the Government’s overarching mission for the year ahead

-Legislative programme will support delivery of the Government’s first steps and missions to rebuild Britain

-Focus on improving the prosperity of the country and living standards of working people

Prime Minister Keir Starmer said:

"Our work is urgent. There is no time to waste. We are hitting the ground running by bringing forward the laws we will need to rebuild our country for the long-term – and our ambitious, fully costed agenda is the down payment on that change.

"From energy, to planning, to unbreakable fiscal rules, my government is serious about delivering the stability that is going to turbo charge growth that will create wealth in every corner of the UK.

"The task of national renewal will not be easy, and this is just the down payment on our plans for the next five years, but the legislation set out at the King’s Speech will build on the momentum of our first days in office and make a difference to the lives of working people."

More details can be found here.

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