The government has promised new measures will be introduced to tackle climate change, air pollution and plastic waste in the Queen’s Speech.

Delivering the speech yesterday from the House of Lords, the Queen acknowledged that ministers remain committed to tackling the escalating climate crisis and improving the environment for future generations, noting that environment principals will be enshrined in law for the first time.

The speech also confirmed the next government will deliver the long-anticipated Environment Bill, initially announced by former Prime Minister Theresa May last summer. The first Environment Bill since 1995, the document will provide a legal framework for the country to reduce pollution over the coming 25 years.