During Curia’s recent dinner in partnership with SME4Labour, attendees were privy to discussions revolving around Labour’s vision for transformative change, frustration with the current government’s lack of responsiveness, and the importance of addressing local challenges.
Subscribers to Curia’s Industrial Strategy Research Group heard from three speakers, each offering invaluable insights into the current political landscape, their plan for the economy, and the future trajectory of our nation. The speakers included:
- Shadow Chancellor of the Exchequer, Rt Hon Rachel Reeves MP.
- Shadow Minister for Crime Reduction and Member for Parliament for Enfield North, Feryal Clark MP.
- Labor Parliamentary Candidate for Milton Keynes North and Director for YouGov, Chris Curtis.
Reeves and Labour’s Vision for Change:
At the dinner, Reeves referred to the detrimental effects of current conservative policies on the economy and public services and therefore stressed the urgent need for change in government. In doing so, she emphasised Labour’s readiness to address these challenges, promising meaningful change and a new direction for the country if given the opportunity to govern.
Reeves’ key policy proposals aimed at improving healthcare, workers’ rights, environmental sustainability, and gender equality. As the first female Chancellor of the Exchequer, she pledged to prioritise closing the gender pay gap. With a steady decline in the overall number of childminders, she highlighted the need to improve childcare services.
Alongside this, discussing Labour’s vision, Reeves emphasised the importance of addressing the electorates’ concerns about their financial wellbeing and the state of public services. This included pledges to prioritise investment in the NHS and fuel job creation to stimulate economic growth.
The Limitations of Being in Opposition:
Shadow Minister for Crime Reduction and MP for Enfield North, Feryal Clark MP expressed frustration at the lack of responsiveness from government ministers to her inquiries and the ongoing challenges faced by her constituents.
In her critique of the current government, she raised her concern about their perceived lack of fresh ideas and innovative policies – asserting that they have largely relied on borrowing Labour’s key pledges.
Clark emphasised the Labour Party’s readiness to govern, praising Reeves’ capability of driving lasting change and her success of commanding respect from across the political spectrum.
Labour Policies at the Local Level:
As Labour Parliamentary Candidate for Milton Keynes North, Chris Curtis reflected on the impact of Labour policies in Milton Keynes. He referenced the effects of the 1960s Labour Government’s initiative to address housing issues – and credited his upbringing in a working-class family in Milton Keynes for his ability to pursue opportunities in his life.
Curtis underscored the importance of addressing current challenges in Milton Keynes, such as NHS waiting times, environmental concerns, transportation issues, and rising crime rates. He criticised the local Conservative MPs for what he saw as a focus on obstructing progress rather than addressing vital issues. Instead, Curtis concluded by suggesting how a new Labour government would boost growth in the region by prioritising initiatives such as infrastructure development, increased police presence, and securing Britain’s future.
Final Thought
The event showcased the determination and vision of Labour representatives to address the pressing issues facing the country. Feryal Clark MP and Rachel Reeves MP highlighted the urgent need for change in government, emphasising Labour’s readiness to govern and implement transformative policies. Chris Curtis, drawing from his experience as a Labour Parliamentary Candidate and pollster, underscored the importance of addressing local challenges and criticised the lack of progress under the current government.
Whilst they articulated a vision for a future Labour Government focused on improving healthcare, workers’ rights, environmental sustainability, and economic prosperity, there was a slight deficit of detail on the kinds of policy changes they want to implement. As the country looks ahead to the upcoming general election, the electorate are keen to see detailed policy proposals that support their calls for change and the promise of a brighter future for all.
The full report of this event is only available to Curia’s Industrial Strategy Research Group subscribers. Confidential insight is provided on topics and themes discussed. For more information about how you can become a subscriber, please email team@curiauk.com.
