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02/05/2006:

"Queen's Speech to set up Blair-Brown handover next year"

Tony Blair and Gordon Brown are preparing new laws designed to ease the Chancellor into No 10 within 18 months. In the clearest sign yet that Mr Blair plans a handover of power next summer, he is allowing his successor unprecedented influence over the Queen's Speech.

Its centrepiece are measures to promote "democratic renewal", The Independent on Sunday has learnt. The issue is close to Mr Brown's heart and he has been working closely with the Prime Minster on measures to encourage local political participation and citizenship.

The proposed Bill will develop many of the themes outlined in the Chancellor's recent speech on "Britishness", including an updated form of national service.

...Mr Brown is also being consulted on further legislation to tackle anti-social behaviour. The so-called respect agenda is proving popular with voters in private polling presented to the Cabinet last month.
independent.co.uk