The path forward | King's Speech 2026: All the key HR updates on employment reform, apprenticeships & digital ID

In contrast to a chaotic week and threats of upheaval at the heart of the Government, the message for HR leaders from Wednesday’s State Opening of Parliament was one of continuity.

While there were no major workplace law announcements, the speech reaffirmed Labour’s reform plans already set in motion by the Employment Rights Act, alongside measures on apprenticeships, digital identity checks, immigration, and business regulation. The challenge for employers is that HR teams continue to navigate an environment that’s as uncertain now as it has been for months.

In his address to Parliament, the King said the Government would pursue reforms that support “higher growth and a fair deal for working people,” while backing measures designed to improve economic security, workforce participation, and productivity.

Below are some of the key measures HR leaders should be paying attention to.