Labour conference in Liverpool: budget, energy and EU relations — Politico Europe
The ruling UK Labour Party is holding its annual conference in Liverpool, where Prime Minister Andy Burnham is due to deliver his first speech as head of government. Politico Europe journalists will be watching, among other things, for statements on the budget, energy costs and relations with the European Union.
The prime minister's speech and the budget
The key event of the conference is expected to be Burnham's speech on Tuesday at 14:00. The publication's political editor, Dan Bloom, expects the prime minister to outline a vision for the country's development, while detailed government documents — the budget, a ten-year plan and a white paper on devolution — are due to appear later this year.
According to Bloom's assessment, high government borrowing costs could complicate simultaneous increases in defence spending and investment in the regions. The budget is scheduled for 28 October. Chancellor John Healey is due to set out a vision of devolution, defence and economic growth for party members on Monday without major policy announcements.
Discussions are also expected on strengthening state control in areas such as water supply and on the limits of new powers for the regions. Politico also forecasts a new wave of speculation about an early election and a possible coalition of centre-left forces.
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Energy, foreign policy and trade
Politico correspondent Charlie Cooper names a possible rise in energy bills in January as one of the main topics. In his view, Burnham and Energy Minister Miatta Fahnbulleh need a plan to support households and businesses. He will also be watching discussions on North Sea oil and gas extraction, including the Jackdaw and Rosebank projects.
Foreign Secretary Ed Miliband may raise the issue of sanctions announced by the government against the Israeli settlement of E1, according to the publication. The Labour Party has supporters both of tougher measures against Israel and of a more cautious position.
In the trade section, journalists will follow government statements on a possible reset of relations with the EU and further negotiations with the United States after a bilateral meeting in New York with President Donald Trump. Issues include the digital services tax and the US-UK pharmaceutical agreement, which envisages higher National Health Service spending on medicines.
Technology and social media
The conference may discuss regulating access to social media for people under the age of 16. The government plans to submit the relevant rules before the parliamentary recess in December. Artificial intelligence and its role in Labour's economic and political strategy will be another topic.
