Pomp and controversy on day of Queen's speech

A day of pomp and controversy in the Houses of Parliament, as the UK's monarch delivers the so-called Queen's Speech.

It was the highlight of a day of elaborate pageantry in Westminster, where her Majesty gave details of more than 20 bills the government wants to enact in the coming year.

But with Britain's politics in turmoil, and Brexit still unresolved, many of these bills may never come to pass.

(SOUNDBITE) (English) BRITAIN'S QUEEN ELIZABETH, SAYING:

"My government's priority has always been to secure the United Kingdom's departure from the European Union on 31 October. My government intends to work towards a new partnership with the European Union, based on free trade and friendly cooperation."

Whether these bills ever become law probably comes down to how Prime Minister Boris Johnson performs at any upcoming election.

The speech comes just days ahead of this week's crucial EU summit, where last-minute talks could decide whether Britain leaves the bloc with a deal on October 31st, or if it's forced to request yet another delay.

Johnson's rivals have accused him of misusing the Queen's speech for political gain and to push a Conservative party manifesto ahead of a potential vote.

But the Prime Minister says he needed the speech to set out his plans for government.

The speech is now subject to several days of debate, ending with votes to approve it.