Brexit Deal Is British Government’s Top Priority – Queen Elizabeth

Brexit Deal Is British Government’s Top Priority – Queen Elizabeth

Queen Elizabeth has said the government’s priority was to secure the best possible deal for Britain as it leaves the European Union.   Delivering the Queen’s Speech, prepared by ministers on her behalf, the head of state on Wednesday outlined the government’s plans for the next two years.
Conservative Prime Minister Theresa May has had to drop several high-profile campaign promises from the speech after losing her parliamentary majority in a June 8 election that left her politically weakened.
The speech mentioned an upcoming state visit by King Felipe and Queen Letizia of Spain but made no mention of any state visit by U.S. President Donald Trump.
A spokesman for May said the Trump visit was not mentioned because no date had been set. Media have reported that Trump was now reluctant to come because of potential mass protests during his visit. The British government and White House have not confirmed that.
The speech also promised a public inquiry into the fire at a social housing tower block in London that killed 79. May has been widely criticised for her handling of the tragedy, which was seen as insensitive.
The overall event, known as the State Opening of Parliament, was relatively low-key compared with the usual pomp and pageantry.
The Queen did not wear a gown and crown, and arrived in a car rather than a horse-drawn carriage.
However, some traditions were upheld. Veteran opposition Labour lawmaker Dennis Skinner, who has a history of heckling during State Openings, joked that lawmakers should “get their skates on” so that the Queen could get away in time to see the first race of the day at Royal Ascot, a horse-racing event she was due to attend later on Wednesday.