Brown spells out vision for Britain

A raft of 28 Bills and Draft Bills in the Queen's Speech contained no surprises, but promised to raise the education leaving age to 18, secure more apprenticeships and make more affordable housing available.

To tackle the terrorist threat a new Bill will include powers to question suspects after charge, a move already announced by both Mr Brown and Home Secretary Jacqui Smith. No fresh details were given in the speech on the Government's favoured option to extend the current 28 days detention without charge for terror suspects. Ministers will continue to seek a cross-party consensus.

In other moves, employers will be required to contribute to workers' pensions and employees are to have extended rights to request flexible working to look after children.

Downing Street said the speech set out a programme "to provide the best chances for people to make the most of themselves and their potential" and for "a Britain that realises all the talents of all the people". It said the priorities reflected in the speech were education, the NHS, security, affordable housing, better balance between work and family life, and a strong economy.

One measure in the package not already flagged up by Mr Brown when he broke with tradition and outlined his draft programme in July is legislation to protect depositors and ensure confidence in the banking system, following the Northern Rock crisis.

On housing, a new Homes and Communities Agency will be set up to deliver affordable homes and promote regeneration of run-down areas. Reforms to the planning system to speed up developments were also promised.

The speech also confirmed proposals will be brought forward to "renew the constitutional settlement" and strengthen the relationship between the Government, Parliament and the people.

A draft Bill will be published next year setting out plans for MPs to have a greater say in sending troops overseas, and taking over the Intelligence and Security Committee from Downing Street.

On the health service, the speech promised "a healthcare system organised around the needs of the patient" and legislation to create a health and social care regulator to ensure "clean and safe services and high-quality care". There will also be a Bill to improve services for vulnerable children and young people, including those in care.