Queen's Speech: Lords reform and help for families expected Published on Wednesday 9 May 2012 10:08 REFORM of the House of Lords, a package of "family-friendly" policies and new regulations over executive pay are expected to be among the new legislation to feature in the Queen's Speech today, as the coalition Government attempts to recover from a series of gaffes and a local election disaster. What to expect in the Queen's Speech: Reform of the House of Lords, abolishing hereditary peers Creation of a National Crime Agency to tackle serious and organised crime Legislation to make drug-driving a specific offence A move to split banks into retail and investment banking functions Changes to the pay of top executives, with more power to shareholders Driving under the influence of drugs could become its own specific offence Changes to public sector pensions, such as career average schemes Proposals for internet surveillance in interests of national security Full coverage on scotsman.com/politics from 11.30am Follow @TomPeterkin on Twitter for live updates The unveiling of legislative plans for the coming year is a key part of an attempted government relaunch amid bleak economic news and backbench pressure for a change of course. Among measures expected to feature prominently in the programme to be formally revealed by the Queen are binding votes for shareholders on executive pay - bolstering a growing revolt against boardroom excess. More flexible leave for parents, speedier adoptions, better help for special needs pupils and improved access arrangements for divorced fathers will all be included in a wide-ranging Bill, Downing Street sources indicated. The Government will also signal its intent to press ahead with reform of the House of Lords - a key Liberal Democrat demand but the focus for anger among many Tory MPs, including senior figures. They complain that with the UK back in recession it is "barmy" to devote parliamentary time to a constitutional shake-up and are threatening a full-scale rebellion. Public sector pension reform and efforts to slash business red tape are anticipated as part of what the Prime Minister said remained a clear focus on cutting debt and stimulating growth. Energy market regulation, the creation of a National Crime Agency, tougher regulation of supermarkets and a new ban on driving while under the influence of drugs are all expected. And there will detailed plans for the splitting up of banks to avert a repeat of the 2008 crash. The State Opening of Parliament forms the most colourful event of the parliamentary year and is steeped in tradition and customs dating back centuries. As Head of State, it is the Queen's duty to formally to open each new session of Parliament. Usually taking place in the autumn, this is the first time since 2010 that the Queen has travelled to the Palace of Westminster for this purpose. This last two-year session has lasted longer than the usual 12 months because of the move to five-year, fixed-term parliaments, which will see the Queen's appearance at Westminster become a regular springtime event.