'Deeply disappointing': Defence Readiness Bill omission from King's speech sparks criticism
The omission of the proposed Defence Readiness Bill from the King's Speech has raised fresh questions over the UK's preparedness for conflict, despite growing concern about Britain's ability to respond to a future war.
While his speech at the State Opening of Parliament did include the Armed Forces Bill, which introduces new measures to make it easier to mobilise former service personnel in preparation for conflict, it did not include plans to change the law on increasing the UK's readiness, drawing criticism across government.
The Defence Readiness Bill, due to be introduced at the beginning of the year, would have required key industries to prepare their workforce in the event of a conflict.
Failing to act
Speaking to BFBS Forces News, the chair of the House of Commons Defence Committee, Tan Dhesi, said: "The geopolitical landscape is dangerous and increasingly fraught with conflict.
"The Defence Readiness Bill is critical to enabling the government to take swift action in response to a crisis and conflict. The absence of the Bill from the King's Speech is deeply disappointing, undermining the UK's credibility with our allies."
He added: "It is yet another instance of government delaying taking necessary steps to shore up our nation's defence capabilities, with the missing Defence Investment Plan also leaving the UK defence industry stuck in a holding pattern.
"Government can only kick the can down the road for so long."
Homeland security
An MOD spokesperson said: "We're constantly hardening and sharpening our approach to homeland security, backed by the largest sustained increase in defence spending since the end of the Cold War, making the UK well able to respond to the threats we face.
"The Strategic Defence Review set out clearly the need to adapt to a more dangerous security environment, and we are taking that assessment seriously.
"We are aiming to bring forward defence readiness legislation within this parliament, ensuring the Government always has the powers it needs to keep the UK safe in crisis or war."
Turbulent times
A total of 37 bills were announced covering a wide range of plans, including defence and the UK's future security.
Delivering his speech, His Majesty King Charles III spoke of the "increasingly dangerous and volatile world" which threatens the UK, highlighting the conflict in the Middle East as the most recent example.
"Every element of the nation's energy, defence and economic security will be tested," he said.
His Majesty added: "My Government will support our gallant Armed Forces and their families who make considerable personal sacrifices for the collective security and freedom of everyone in the United Kingdom.
"My Ministers will recognise this service with an Armed Forces Bill that improves the service justice system and establishes the Armed Forces covenant in statute."
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