On 13 May 2026, King Charles III delivered the King’s Speech, setting out the Government’s legislative agenda for the next Parliamentary session and beyond.
Kevin Craven, ADS Chief Executive said:
“Against the backdrop of increasing geopolitical uncertainty and growing demand across our sectors, it is crucial for the Government to focus on the day job and deliver for society and our sectors. For that reason, we welcome today’s King’s Speech.
The ongoing commitment to deepen ties with the European Union is particularly important for our sectors, supporting closer collaboration across aerospace, defence, security and space supply chains, and strengthening our shared approach to European security.
We were pleased to see the government recommit to airspace modernisation and airport expansion which will ensure the UK’s global competitiveness, attract investment and support the sector’s decarbonisation journey.
We also welcome the measures to reform and centralise policing, alongside a sharper focus on tackling cyber threats. Other proposals on regulatory and competition reform will be welcomed by industry, but must be delivered not just promised. Similarly, we hope that the Government’s ambitious agenda on energy will lead to reduced business costs.
However, the absence of a Defence Readiness Bill is disappointing news for both our Armed Forces and the industry that fuels it. We look forward to continuing to work with Government to ensure this plan for change delivers the economic growth and security our sectors and the country need.”
