Labour Party Conference 2024: 4 takeaways for Public Affairs Professionals

The 2024 Labour Party Conference in Liverpool marked Labour’s first conference in power for 15 years – and unveiled a fast-evolving and uncertain landscape for public affairs professionals. With shifting policies and new parliamentary dynamics, we have a lot to navigate in the coming months.

Fortunately, our Public Affairs division is here to guide you. Having attended the conference, Managing Partner Janie Emmerson and Managing Consultant Peter Ferguson compiled their key insights and learnings.

Explore the top four Labour Party Conference takeaways for public affairs professionals here:

We need to be realistic about the challenge ahead

Labour faces a monumental task, with much of the conference focusing on practical realism — and even pessimism at times. The new government has inherited significant economic and geopolitical uncertainty. It’s not just that change won’t happen overnight; it’s that it won’t come easily at all.

October’s budget is expected to confirm stringent financial measures, while the lingering impacts of Covid, Brexit, and global tensions continue to pose challenges. For public affairs professionals, this means gearing up for a potentially tough period of cautious policymaking and gradual progress. And when it comes to talent, organisations will likely need to prioritise strategic skills such as crisis management, long-term policy navigation, and economic insight to navigate this complex time effectively.

We should expect fiscal prudence and policy shifts

Throughout the conference, messaging suggested we should expect substantial changes in fiscal policy and governance. Starmer’s pledge to “rebuild Britain” comes with a promise of fiscal prudence.

Labour is set to potentially introduce new taxes on non-doms and private schools, but without the confirmation of the October budget, it’s difficult to anticipate where change will be most keenly felt.

For PA professionals, this means balancing long-term planning with the need to remain flexible and adaptable in the face of expected change in the immediate future.

Sustainability and healthcare take centre stage in 2024

There are two key sectors at the forefront of Labour’s agenda: green energy and NHS reform. Labour’s ambitious Green Prosperity Plan, aiming for £28 billion a year in green investment, seeks to position Britain as a global leader in renewable energy. Public affairs professionals in sustainability should expect increased policy development, regulatory shifts, and demand for talent with expertise in energy transition and environmental policy.

NHS reform was another major focus, with commitments to reduce wait times, invest in technology, and address staffing shortages. For PA professionals in healthcare, this signals a busier period ahead. Expect significant changes as Labour seeks to strengthen public healthcare services and reduce reliance on private providers.

Now is the time to reassess PA capabilities

As we navigate this new political landscape, PA professionals must stay informed, agile, and strategic. The Labour government’s actions in the coming months will set the tone for years to come. Those who can effectively interpret and respond to these changes will be best positioned to succeed.

For organisations looking to engage with the new government, it’s time to reassess and strengthen your public affairs capabilities. With the right expertise, you can turn these political shifts into opportunities for your organisation.

To discuss more from the 2024 Labour Party Conference, or how we can support with public affairs talent, get in touch:

Janie Emmerson, Managing Partner: JanieE@HansonSearch.com

Peter Ferguson, Managing Consultant: PeterF@HansonSearch.com