HER Majesty the Queen, has today opened a new session of Parliament and set out the Government’s agenda for the year ahead focussing on building back better from the pandemic and delivering on people’s priorities says MP Robert Halfon.

The Queen’s Speech announced a number of new Bills in Parliament – many of which, Harlow’s MP, Robert Halfon, has worked hard to secure. The new Bills include:

Victims Support Bill to create new rights for the victims of crime, including new standards on support offered to sexual and domestic victims – an issue Mr Halfon has worked with many Harlow residents with and has lobbied the Government on in Parliament

Skills and Post-16 Education Bill to rocket boost lifelong learning and Further Education to invest in Harlow College and allow every adult the chance of climbing the education ladder of opportunity to well-paid jobs and opportunities – a topic Mr Halfon has led the charge in Parliament on

Police, Crime, Sentencing and Courts Bill to ensure sentences truly reflect crimes and the police have the powers they need to make our streets safer

Planning Bill to ensure that new homes, hospitals and schools can be built where they are needed

Higher Education (Freedom of Speech) Bill which will place new legal duties on students’ unions and universities in England to ensure free speech on campus – something Mr Halfon has called for in his Education Committee

NHS Bill to strengthen the NHS and cut waiting times

Mental Health Bill to ensure everyone can access the support they need

A new Bill to strengthen the asylum system and stop migrants from crossing the English Channel

Commenting on the Queen’s Speech, Mr Halfon said: “This Queen’s speech made clear that the Government is focussed on delivering on the things that matter most to Harlow residents with Harlow homes for Harlow families, safer streets, strengthening our NHS and huge investments into education and skills.

“I have worked hard to lobby the Government on many of these major issues whether it be better support for victims or ensuring every adult has the chance to climb the education ladder of opportunity.

“I will continue to work hard for Harlow and deliver on the pledges I have made over the next year in Parliament.”