Labour sees surge in business attendees, as it continues to perform strongly in the polls

Labour has reported a significant rise in business interest for its upcoming annual conference in October, following strong performances in recent polls. According to the party, the number of businesses signing up for its flagship business forum has increased by 50% compared to last year.

The forum, described as the “flagship engagement event for business” at the four-day gathering in Liverpool, has become a key feature for Labour as it seeks to engage with the business community. The party revealed that all 200 tickets initially available for the event have been snapped up, with an additional 150 businesses currently on the waiting list.

This surge in interest highlights Labour’s growing reputation as the “party of economic growth.” Shadow chancellor Rachel Reeves has played a key role in reassuring businesses, notably ruling out a wealth tax under a future Labour government. During the conference, Labour aims to demonstrate how it plans to stimulate the economy, with planning reforms forming a central part of its strategy to drive growth.

As Labour continues to attract business leaders ahead of the next general election, Sir Keir Starmer is expected to use the conference to outline how his government would revitalise a sluggish economy. With a focus on policies to encourage investment from businesses of all sizes, Starmer has also pledged not to raise income taxes for top earners and confirmed there will be no new levies targeting wealth or high-value properties.

In an interview with The Telegraph, Reeves emphasized that Labour’s approach to funding public services would focus on growth rather than increasing taxes. “I don’t see a route towards having more money for public services through taxing our way there,” she said. “It is going to be through growing our way there.”

Labour’s spokesperson added: “With Keir’s leadership, the Labour Party is once again the party of economic growth. At this year’s conference, we will be setting out how a mission-driven Labour government will deliver economic growth across all parts of the country and give Britain its future back.”

Additionally, this year’s conference will feature a half-day event specifically dedicated to small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), providing a platform for these businesses to discuss Labour’s plans for economic renewal.

The Labour Party conference will take place from October 8-11 in Liverpool, following the Conservative Party’s conference, which will be held in Manchester from October 1-4.