Queen's Speech
News, features and resources on the 2006 State Opening of Parliament
Find out what happened when you questioned the PM
- Question the PM
Tony Blair answered questions from users of the Downing Street website. The 30-minute session covered key themes from this week's Queen's Speech - criminal justice, ID cards, climate change and pensions.
Why do we have the Queen's Speech?
The Queen's Speech is delivered from the Throne in the House of Lords. The speech is drawn up by the Government and approved by the Cabinet. The content is then debated in both houses.
Follow the links below for more background information on the State Opening.
Back in time
"The day was cold and sleet fell" - a dip into the archives
Pomp and ceremony
A day of colour, tradition and ceremony in Westminster
Colourful characters
Knock knock, "Who's there?" - find out who does what
Background policy information