Commons - Main Chamber
This is the formal Debate on the Address, a procedural Commons sitting that follows the State Opening of Parliament. MPs debate the Government's legislative agenda and priorities as set out in the Queen's Speech. The debate allows opposition parties and backbenchers to scrutinise the Government's programme and set out their own positions before business begins in earnest.
The Debate on the Address is a constitutional set-piece with limited legislative effect but high political symbolism. It allows Parliament to formally respond to the Crown's legislative programme and gives all parties a platform to define their stance on the Government's direction. For a Labour Government in its second year, this debate will test internal party unity and the opposition's coherence.
Related business
Upcoming similar business
- Debate on the Address20 May 2026
Conclusion of the debate on the King’s Speech on defence readiness
- Debate on the Address19 May 2026
Continuation of the debate on the King’s Speech on energy security
- Debate on the Address18 May 2026
Continuation of the debate on the King’s Speech on backing business to create economic growth
- Debate on the Address14 May 2026
Debate on the Address: Proposed subject for debate: Getting Britain working again
Upcoming on related topics
- Oral questions10 Jun 2026— Scotland
Scotland
Other - Oral evidence9 Jun 2026
Modernisation Committee: Backbench Business Committee and Petitions Committee Debates
Other - Business Statement21 May 2026
Business Questions to the Leader of the House
Other - Adjournment21 May 2026
Imprisonment of Craig and Lindsay Foreman in Iran
Other - Debate on the Address18 May 2026
Continuation of the debate on the King’s Speech on backing business to create economic growth
Other - Ministerial statement14 May 2026
Dillon Judgment
Other
Past on related topics
- Ten Minute Rule Motion5 May 2026
That leave be given to bring in a Bill under SO No. 23 [details to be provided]
Other - Consideration of Lords message30 Apr 2026
If necessary, Consideration of Lords messages
Other - Prorogation29 Apr 2026
A Royal Commission is expected: any business scheduled after it has been received will not be proceeded with The Speaker will not adjourn the House until a Message has been received from the Lords Commissioners (if the Business of the House (Today) motion is agreed to).
Other - Motion29 Apr 2026
Business of the House (Today)
Other - Ten Minute Rule Motion29 Apr 2026
In-Person Banking Services
Other - Debate28 Apr 2026
Courts and Tribunals Bill: Further to consider the Bill
Other