The 2026 King’s Speech has set a strong legislative agenda with over 35 Bills aimed at reshaping the UK’s economic security and public services. For the small and mid-sized quoted sector, the centerpiece is the Government’s commitment to a Regulating for Growth Bill and a broader modernisation of the financial services landscape.
At the QCA, we have long advocated for a shift away from “one-size-fits-all” regulation. While today’s announcements signal that the Government has the right ambition, our focus remains on implementation.
“Following today’s King’s Speech, we welcome the Government’s announcement of a Regulating for Growth Bill and its focus on tackling regulation that is overly complex, risk-averse and slow to adapt.
“However, for the small and mid-sized quoted companies that underpin the UK economy, the true measure of this Bill will lie in its delivery. We have seen various iterations of regulatory reform in recent years, yet the cost and complexity of being a public company in the UK remains a significant barrier to growth.
“What matters now is that we move beyond ambition and deliver the tangible benefits that will keep the UK’s growth companies thriving on home soil. We look forward to engaging with Government, Parliament and regulators to achieve our shared objective of a resilient UK economy.”
Sheldon Brown
Head of Policy & Engagement, QCA
