With a new Prime Minister in Downing Street and the first coalition government since 1945, how will the law change? Find out here
The Queen’s Speech is how the Government sets out the new legislation it will try to bring in. Any change in the law affects lawyers, but these are some of the bills with the biggest legal impact.
This bill will require a referendum before any UK powers can be transferred to the European Union. Depending on the results of these referendums, it could affect various European laws affecting Britain.
While most bills introduce new laws, this one will get rid of many of them in an attempt to restore some civil liberties. It will also regulate CCTV, review libel law and control e-mail and internet records.
This overhaul of policing includes introducing elected police officials to take care of budgets and strategy. It will also amend health and safety laws related to policing.
A new Government also means that budget cuts will be different.
So far, the coalition has announced a £325 million cut to the Ministry of Justice. This is expected to target prison building and the fees paid to expert witnesses.
Cuts are also expected to legal aid – the system which provides legal representation to people who could not otherwise afford it.
Some solicitors have warned that legal aid is even more important during a financial crisis, as people who have lost their jobs or homes need it.
What do you think of these new bills? And how should budget cuts be managed? Share your thoughts in the comments box below.
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Comments
I expected to see some kind of reform regarding the EU - i'm thrilled that we will be having a referendum on any new laws! I just hope the public are in a position to make well informed decisions when they come to vote and are not ignorant to the consequences of their decisions.
I am surprised that cuts are being made to Legal Aid, as this is necessary and supports a basic human right - right to trial.
19-06-10
In order to recover from the recession, cuts to public expenditure need to be made somewhere, therefore there will be somebody, somewhere, losing out. I feel that we just need to accept it as a society, and hope that once the economy has recovered, such budgets will be restored.
10-06-10
As long as I get my EMA in Year 13!
06-06-10
I must say I don't agree with this cutback on CCTV, I think it's important to have it. How many cases do you hear of where a CCTV camera recording has been used as evidence? A lot! If people don't think anybodies watching then crime will only increase! Add on top of this a lack of legal aid and justice may not even come to counteract the crime increase.
Viki · 03-06-10
Any comments?