FX.co ★ Queen Elizabeth II presents UK government agenda

Queen's Speech sets out the government's agenda for the coming session, outlining proposed policies and legislation. The Queen focused mainly on developments inside the country. However, some issues concerned foreign policy.

Photo: Britain's Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh during the Queens's speechfrom the Throne, Westminster Palace, May 18

The major issue in the Queen's address is that the Parliament will be able to intervene in schools and other educational institutions in case they are reportedly involved in propaganda of extremism and terrorism.

Photo: State Opening is the main ceremonial event of the parliamentary calendar, May 18

The Queen announced the legislative plans also include giving law enforcement new powers to counter extremism and radicalization as well as to disrupt efforts to teach hate. However, critics have expressed concern that new legislation contradicts freedom of speech.

The government also committed to continue to meet the North Atlantic Treaty Organization target of spending at least 2% of national income on defense. Besides, the Queen added the government is to ensure the nuclear shield. Importantly, Great Britain is literally the only country, which implements all NATO's recommendations.

Expanding on the foreign policy, the Queen confirmed Britain's commitment to continue contributing to the international campaign to combat Islamic State and bring peace to Syria. Moreover, the UK intends to be involved directly into the settlement of Ukraine's crisis.

Looking back on early days of the armed conflict in East Ukraine, Prime Minister David Cameron reiterates the UK played the major role in imposing sanctions on Russia. Nowadays, the British government considers the scenario of lifting the sanctions on condition Russia fulfils all requirements set out in the Minsk agreement.

The Queen confirmed Britons are due to take part in the referendum on June 23. People will have to vote to remain in the EU or leave.

Her Majesty introduced some amendments in the transport legislation. It greenlights use of self-driving cars which are prohibited by the law now.

The head of the British monarchy noted that a new reform of funding village schools is already underway. Schools are to benefit from new rules. In addition, the government is to impose a new tax on soft drinks with high sugar content.

Speaking about an informal side of the event, Queen Elizabeth used the elevator for the first time to enter the House of Lords and open the 63d parliamentary session.

State Opening attracts large crowds and a significant television and online audience. 90th year-old Queen was wearing a long evening gown, the ermine robe, and the Imperial State crown.