Queen’s Speech to focus on crime and family
The coalition's legislative agenda is set to concentrate on core Conservative policy areas, reassuring Tory MPs after last week's damaging elections.
Backbenchers demanding a return to the party's core policy areas will be relieved by the inclusion in the Queen's Speech of legislation on crime, Sunday newspapers reported.
The creation of a National Crime Agency and reforming of community sentences are expected to feature.
Family values, another key part of the government's agenda, will also please frustrated Conservative MPs.
Education secretary Michael Gove, whose reputation for competence has been boosted by his first two years in office, will bring forward a bill making adoption easier.
Plans to introduce more flexibility to maternity and parental leave will also be introduced, with fathers given the opportunity to take more time off. Flexible working will also be promoted more generally.
As part of the coalition's focus on the economy the Queen's Speech will feature a bill making it much easier for employees to sack underperforming staff.
After the 'granny tax' in March's Budget, legislation is also expected to be introduced which will establish a single-tier pensions system – making many better off.
Controversial proposals to expand government 'snooping' of the internet in order to tackle terrorism will be included.
Legislation will require communications firms to store data relating to the emails activity and online browsing habits of internet users.
Lords reform is expected to remain in place, but will no longer be the flagship bill in the government's programme.
Plans to legalise gay marriage may be supported. Legislation is unlikely to be brought forward this year, however.
The controversial High Speed 2 proposal will not be legislated on, delaying the project by at least a year.
The Queen will deliver her speech, written by the government, at the state opening of parliament on Wednesday.
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