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When is the State Opening of Parliament 2021?
THE 2021 State Opening of Parliament is today, Tuesday May 11.
The Queen will give her speech outlining the parliamentary plans for the year ahead.
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When is the State Opening of Parliament in 2021?
The State Opening of Parliament is taking place today - Tuesday, May 11, 2021.
The Queen will set out the Government’s agenda for the year ahead, following the May 6 local elections.
It is her first major public engagement since the death of the Duke of Edinburgh.
She will give her speech from the throne in the House of Lords from about 11.30am.
This will outline Prime Minister Boris Johnson's plans for new laws to be introduced, as well as what he would like to discuss further or drop completely.
In light of the Covid pandemic, the State Opening has been adapted, with reduced ceremonial elements and attendees to ensure it is coronavirus-secure.
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What is the State Opening of Parliament?
In a tradition which goes as far back as the 16th century, the State Opening of Parliament marks the start of the parliamentary year.
The ceremony in its current format dates from the opening of the rebuilt Palace of Westminster in 1852 after the fire of 1834.
The pomp and ceremony usually on show at the most colourful parliamentary event of the year has been scaled back due to the Covid restrictions.
It is regarded as one of the most eagerly awaited events in the parliamentary calendar.
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MORE ON THE QUEEN
Can I watch the State Opening of Parliament?
The Sun Online's channel is showing the event live today.
You can watch it at the top of this article.
The State Opening of Parliament is also being broadcast live on both BBC News and Sky News.
You can watch it online, and on .
It will also be shown live on and a livestream of the Queen's Speech will be on from 11.25am.
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