NHS waiting lists noted as a priority in King’s Speech

NHS waiting lists and prevention measures were highlighted in the King’s Speech today (Wednesday 17 July).

King Charles opened his speech by emphasising that the new Government will be “mission-led,” referencing the five ‘missions’ that Keir Starmer’s Labour Party based its general election campaign around.

“Securing economic growth will be a fundamental mission,” King Charles said, adding that the Government’s plans must all fall within fiscal rules.

Acknowledging cost of living challenges, the new Government’s aim is to see “rising living standards within all nations of the United Kingdom,” the King said.

Priorities around healthcare will include a focus on prevention, as well as emphasis on lowering NHS waiting lists.

The King described the NHS as “a service for all, providing the basis of need, regardless of the ability to pay.”

The Government “will seek to reduce the waiting times” and “focus on prevention,” he said.

Health secretary Wes Streeting told attendees at last week’s Future of Britain 2024 conference that lowering waiting lists is his “immediate focus and number one objective.”

There are currently 7.6 million people on the NHS waiting list in England.

Plans for a staggered ban on the purchase of cigarettes and restrictions on junk food advertising were also referenced in the speech.

The King also highlighted the Government’s plans to improve the nation’s mental health, including through modernisation of the Mental Health Act “so it is fit for the 21^st century.” 

What is the King’s Speech?

The King’s Speech traditionally lays out a government’s legislative priorities ahead of a new parliamentary session.

It is made as part of the State Opening of Parliament and is delivered by the monarch in the Palace of Westminster, but is written by the government.

35 pieces of legislation for the next parliamentary session were included in the 17 July speech, the first since the Labour Party came to power after the 4 July general election.

The speech is traditionally followed by an afternoon House of Commons debate on the issues outlined.

Lead image: Prime Minister Keir Starmer reads through his King's Speech in the cabinet office in 10 Downing Street. Image credit: Simon Dawson / No 10 Downing Street