PCS responds to King’s Speech

The speech included proposals focused on economic growth and investment, energy and infrastructure, immigration and national security, political reform and public services.

PCS recognises that some of the measures announced appear positive in nature and could improve the wellbeing of our members and wider society, including the Social Housing Renewal Bill and proposals to increase support for children with special educational needs. We will examine the detail of all legislation carefully as it emerges. 

However, what was missing was any meaningful sense of urgency in tackling the growing cost of living crisis facing so many of our members, and wider society. 

Nothing announced today indicated how life will become cheaper for people in the immediate future - including the hundreds of thousands of public servants who keep this country running. There was no serious plan to boost pay, reduce household bills, bring down rents or ease the pressure of rising food and living costs.

PCS is also deeply concerned by proposals contained within the Immigration and Asylum Bill and the Courts Bill. The union believes these measures risk weakening judicial oversight, reducing protections for vulnerable people and undermining confidence in fairness and access to justice. 

Responding to the King's Speech, PCS general secretary Fran Heathcote said: 

“Our members needed to hear how this government plans to make life more affordable now, but today there was little reassurance for the millions of households struggling under the weight of rising costs.

“While some of the government’s proposals are welcome in principle, our members cannot wait five or ten years to feel the benefits of economic growth that may or may not come. Long-term investment offers little comfort today to families worrying about how they will pay next month’s rent, heating bill or food shop.

“PCS will continue to campaign for fair pay, properly funded public services and urgent action to tackle the cost-of-living crisis affecting our members and communities across the UK.

“We will also continue to oppose attempts to scapegoat migrants or weaken fundamental rights and protections, including access to fair justice through jury trials. The answer to falling living standards is not division it is urgent investment, fairness and support for working people.”

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