Reviewing politics
and culture since 1913

  1. Business
  2. Economics
14 September 2007updated 22 Oct 2020 3:55pm

Beside the seaside…

The conference season kicks off in Brighton, moves to Bournemouth and then ends up in Blackpool and

By Ben Davies

Conference season. You either love it or you hate it. Every year an assorted group of hacks, lobbyists, campaigners and politicos pack their bags and head to the coast.

For some people it all starts with the TUC, then it’s a week with the Lib Dems, then Labour, then the Tories, then rehab.

Because quite often it’s not so much a case of Party Season as Parties Season as one reception seems to blend (or is it blur?) into another.

Personally, I always enjoyed the Morning Star bash at the TUC which usually takes place in some gloomy bar away from the main event. Read into that what you will.

Anyway, as you might expect the New Statesman plays a key role at each of the three main party gatherings in what is often seen as the real political debate that takes place on the fringe. And, for the first time, we’re podcasting these discussions.

What’s more we will bring you the Inside Track – what’s happening and, perhaps even more importantly, analysis as to what it all means.

Plus daily updates online from politicians, party workers and other attendees can be found on this blog.

Subscribe to The New Statesman today from only £8.99 per month

From the Lib Dems in Brighton look out for Lembit Opik, Jo Swinson, Nick Clegg, Welsh AM Peter Black and, from the youth wing of the party, Mark Gettleson.

Hope you enjoy our coverage!

Content from our partners
Energy storage must not be overlooked on the road to net zero 
Mental health: The productivity puzzle
Resilience starts with design and disclosure