Thousands of Labour members and MPs gathered recently in Liverpool for the party's first conference after being elected to power, setting the stage for significant policy announcements. During this moment, tensions lingered over several contentious issues, including Labour's connections with its donors and dissatisfaction surrounding limited winter fuel payments. Nonetheless, the party is determined to use this conference to reaffirm their election pledges and introduce additional policies.
One of the highlighted announcements was made by Chancellor Rachel Reeves, who stated on Monday, September 22, 2024, her intention to investigate £674 million worth of disputed Covid contracts. These were contracts from the previous Conservative government, which controversially opted to cease investigations relating to procurement for personal protective equipment (PPE) such as masks and gowns. “We are delivering on our commitment to appoint a Covid corruption commissioner. It could not be more urgent,” Reeves asserted, emphasizing her decision to halt any contracts from being abandoned until assessed by the newly appointed commissioner.
Moving to employment legislation, Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner shared plans for the upcoming employment rights bill. This bill is part of Labour's ‘New Deal for Working People’ aimed at fostering worker rights and protections by examining and repealing several anti-worker laws established by the Tories. Rayner declared, “They said we couldn’t do it, some tried to stop it, but after years of opposition, we are on the verge of historic legislation.” This new legislation would introduce additional rights for union representatives, prohibit the controversial practice known as fire and rehire, and guarantee basic employment rights from the first day on the job.
One of the innovative policies discussed was the introduction of “planning passports,” suggested by the Prime Minister. Aimed at expediting the construction of multi-home dwellings, these passports would allow housing schemes meeting high design and quality standards to bypass much of the usual red tape associated with the planning process. Clarifying the focus on multi-home developments rather than towering apartments, sources within the party indicated plans for greater densification across UK cities, including regions from Leeds to Liverpool.
Foreign Secretary David Lammy also made headlines during the conference by hinting at the potential for the UK to impose stronger sanctions on Israel. He expressed deep concern over the increased violence and settler aggression seen recently, stating his active discussions with G7 allies about responding to this escalation. Although he ruled out imposing an arms embargo, he confirmed these discussions would remain under close review, especially following disappointment expressed by Israeli leaders over the UK’s shifting stance.
On the military front, Defence Secretary John Healey announced plans aimed at attracting young, tech-savvy Brits to join the military. Citing rising cybersecurity threats—namely, Russia’s attempted cyber intrusions, which added up to around 90,000 instances over two years—Healey urged avid gamers to enlist. “If you are a top gamer – your country needs you,” he said, highlighting the relevance of gaming skills to modern warfare—specifically drone operations. By loosening certain restrictions on enlistment for individuals with conditions like hayfever or eczema, he hopes to recruit more qualified individuals for roles as drone pilots.
With these announcements, Labour aims to address pressing issues such as COVID corruption, workers’ rights, housing needs, international relations, and technological warfare support. Each policy reflects the party's commitment to improving various facets of British society post-election.
