Repeal Bill confirmed in Queen’s Speech

The speech, which follows the State Opening of Parliament, sets out the priorities for the government over the course of the next Parliament.

Securing the ‘best possible deal’ for the UK as it exits the European Union has been identified as the top priority for the government over the course of the, with Brexit negotiations having begun on Monday.

Of particular importance to the waste and recycling sector is the certainty over the future of laws stemming from European legislation including the Waste Framework, Packaging and Packaging Waste, Landfill and WEEE Directives.

Brexit

For the immediate future, it looks likely that the government will transpose the existing suite of EU environmental laws into UK law, through the Repeal Bill, which government documents state will seek to provide “certainty for individuals and businesses” ahead of Brexit.

In her speech to Parliament today, Her Majesty, said: “My government’s priority is to secure the best possible deal as the country leaves the European Union. My ministers are committed to working with Parliament, the devolved administrations, business and others to build the widest possible consensus on the country’s future outside the European Union.

“A bill will be introduced to repeal the European Communities Act and provide certainty for individuals and businesses. This will be complemented by legislation to ensure that the United Kingdom makes a success of Brexit, establishing new national policies on immigration, international sanctions, nuclear safeguards, agriculture, and fisheries.”

Other priorities outlined in the speech include a Civil Liberty Bill, legislation to address domestic violence and powers to authorise the second phase of works on the High Speed Two rail line.

Environment

Reacting to the Queen’s Speech today, Nick Molho, Executive Director of the Aldersgate Group, said: “It is encouraging to see the government’s desire to make the UK a leader in new industries and enhance its role on the world stage. If the government is to do this successfully, it will need to commit to an ambitious environmental and low carbon agenda.”

He added: “In incorporating EU environmental legislation in UK law and determining its future, the government should focus on delivering environmental improvements on the ground that are as good as or better than what is currently legislated for.”