Prime Minister outlines long-term plans for economic growth while facing backlash for failing to address urgent financial pressures on households.

Boris Johnson, the Prime Minister, faced intense criticism for not offering immediate solutions to the escalating cost of living in his Queen’s Speech address, despite promising compassion and support in the long term. Johnson warned that the Government could not fully protect individuals from the rising cost of living but assured MPs that the administration would continue to use its resources to alleviate financial burdens. However, no concrete short-term measures were proposed during his speech, leading to discontent among opposition leaders and campaign groups.

The Prime Minister outlined the Government’s ambition to transition to a “high-wage, high-skill” economy, aimed at creating a foundation for long-term prosperity. He acknowledged the immediate struggles of people, particularly with soaring energy costs and inflation, but refrained from announcing any direct intervention to assist households in the near future. “We will continue to use all our ingenuity and compassion for as long as it takes,” Johnson said, hinting at future help but offering no timeline for immediate relief.

While Johnson focused on the broader economic recovery, Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer sharply criticised the lack of urgency in addressing the cost-of-living crisis, labelling the Government’s approach “pathetic” and warning of the potential for stagflation. The Queen’s Speech, delivered by the Prince of Wales for the first time, included plans for economic growth and increased security measures in response to international threats, but did not propose any immediate financial aid for those struggling with rising living costs.

Despite this, Johnson referred to the £22 billion support package already in place, aimed at addressing energy bills and taxes. However, the Government’s focus remains on long-term growth rather than short-term financial relief, with public finances already strained due to pandemic-related spending. Critics, including charity leaders, voiced concerns that the Government had missed an opportunity to address the pressing issues affecting families and pensioners now.

The Government also unveiled 38 new Bills in the Queen’s Speech, including proposals for regional growth, energy security, and the protection of workers’ rights. Nevertheless, for many struggling households, these long-term plans seemed a distant promise, with immediate support yet to materialise.