Communications Bill set out
Plans for a controversial Draft Communications Data Bill were outlined in the Queen’s Speech, along with measures to tackle crime.
It had been thought that the Draft Communications Data Bill could see internet companies allow the government's listening post at GCHQ to track communication through websites such as Facebook and Googlemail.
Liberal Democrat president Tim Farron has previously said the party would "kill" proposals for increased monitoring of emails and internet use if they were not watered down.
Outlining the Draft Communications Data Bill, Her Majesty stated: “My Government intends to bring forward measures to maintain the ability of the law enforcement and intelligence agencies to access vital communications data under strict safeguards to protect the public, subject to scrutiny of draft clauses.”
There will also be a Crime and Courts Bill. Her Majesty said: "My Government is committed to reducing and preventing crime. A Bill will be introduced to establish the National Crime Agency to tackle the most serious and organised crime and strengthen border security. The courts and tribunals service will be reformed to increase efficiency, transparency and judicial diversity."