The King’s Speech set out a series of major legislative priorities, including the Cyber Security and Resilience Bill and renewed plans for voluntary digital IDs, as part of the government’s wider aim to build a stronger UK.

The speech confirmed that new legislation will set out how voluntary digital IDs could be implemented across society, including for access to public services, with the government aiming to make them available to those who want them by 2029.

It also provided an update on the Cyber Security and Resilience Bill, which is designed to strengthen protections for critical infrastructure and supply chains following a wave of major cyber-attacks. The government said further legislation may also be introduced to support cybersecurity research and improve the security of enterprise connected devices.

Graeme Stewart, Head of Public Sector at Check Point said: “Ramping up AI security legislation is an absolute must, especially when the technology can so easily by hijacked by hostile foreign powers and cyber criminals to attack our banks, hospitals and public services.

“Likewise, the Resilience Bill will at last enshrine contingency planning into law, forcing key areas of UK PLC to have a clear plan of action in place when the next successful cyber attack inevitably takes place. If anything, today’s proposals do not go far enough, and much more needs to be done to ensure businesses and government work more closely together to tackle this menace.”

According to the Government, the new laws form part of a long-term programme to strengthen the economy, improve public services and ensure greater security and opportunity for people across the country.

The programme was announced as part of the King’s Speech and outlined more than 35 measures across the economy and public finances, asylum and immigration, the environment, health, housing, transport, crime, governance, digital ID, road safety, cyber security.

This includes core promises to help parents with everyday school costs, stronger rights for victims and survivors, creating the first smoke-free generation to help people live healthier lives, tougher police powers to crack down antisocial behaviour and giving communities a say in the decisions that affect them.

Prime Minister Keir Starmer commented: “The British people expect the Government to get on with the job of changing our country for the better. Cutting the cost of living, bringing down hospital waiting lists and keeping our country safe in an increasingly dangerous world.”

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“Britain stands at a pivotal moment: to press ahead with a plan to build a stronger, fairer country or turn back to the chaos and instability of the past. My government will deliver on the promise of change for the British people.”

The King’s Speech, the second under the government, unveiled over 35 bills and draft bills facing up to the big challenges our country faces and put the UK on a stronger, fairer path for people across Britain.

Jennifer Holmes, CEO of London Internet Exchange, commented: “As the Government outlines its priorities in today’s King’s Speech, the continued focus on cyber security and digital resilience is both welcome and necessary. The UK’s economy, public services, and critical national infrastructure increasingly rely on fast, secure, and resilient internet connectivity, making the resilience of the networks underpinning the internet more important than ever.”

“Internet exchanges play a critical role in keeping data flowing securely and efficiently between networks, supporting everything from businesses and financial services to healthcare and public sector operations. As cyber threats continue to evolve in scale and sophistication, investment in resilient digital infrastructure and strong cyber defences will be essential to ensuring the UK remains secure, competitive, and connected.”