University of Liverpool returns to Labour Party Conference

Alison Coles (Fabian Society), Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy MP and Professor Fiona Beveridge

The University of Liverpool took part in an extensive programme of events at the Labour Party Conference this year, with Liverpool hosting Labour as the party of government for the first time.

The University partnered with many different think tanks and organisations to discuss pressing issues including digital exclusion and AI during the four-day event.

A panel event on digital inclusion with Professor Simeon Yates from our Department of Communication and Media and Samantha Niblet MP

Events included partnering with the Fabian Society to host a discussion with Professor Fiona Beveridge and Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport, Lisa Nandy, on the future of arts and culture in the UK. Fiona emphasised the role of universities in creating cultural savvy citizens, followed by a question-and-answer session about the country’s key cultural institutions.

The Heseltine Institute held three fascinating events including a roundtable on universities and devolution, an event on net zero with the Institute for Government and a discussion with the Northern Health Science Alliance on child poverty.

In an event hosted by Liverpool City Region Combined Authority, Vice Chancellor, Professor Tim Jones and Chi Onwurah, MP (Chair of the House of Commons Science, Innovation & Technology Committee) discussed the devolution of R&D funding and attracting overseas investment.

Chi Onwurah, MP speaking at event hosted by LCR Combined Authority

Professor Tim Jones, Vice-Chancellor of the University of Liverpool said: “It was fantastic to have the conference on our doorstep in Liverpool once again so that our academics could take part in many of the pressing issues facing our new government.

“A founding mission of the University is to tackle the grand challenges of our age and so it was great to showcase our world-leading research to an esteemed audience of policy makers, commentators, and experts. By contributing our knowledge and driving the conversation we can continue to make a positive impact both locally and globally.”