Loughborough University at Party Conferences 2025

September and October is the time of year that major political parties run their annual conferences and, for the third year running, the Policy Unit will be attending. This year the Unit is attending the Labour gathering in Liverpool (28 September-1 October), Conservative in Manchester (5-8 October) and Reform in Birmingham (5-6 September). As they did last year, the Unit will be running a series of events at the Labour and Conservative Conferences.

Labour Party Conference

The Policy Unit will represent Loughborough University at the Labour Party Conference at the end of September in Liverpool. As with previous years, the Unit will be representing the University's research strengths through proactive discussions and attending fringe events related to the University's strategic priorities. 

Beyond this, the University worked with partners to organise a number of events that will put Loughborough University research expertise and partnerships at the forefront of discussions. The full programme is as follows: 

‘How Can Renewable Energy Be a Key Driver of Economic Growth?’

Monday 29 September 09.00-10.00 at the Novotel Hotel, Liverpool

Speakers:

  • James Naish MP, MP for Northcliffe
  • Dr Kathryn North, Associate Pro-Vice Chancellor for Climate Change, Loughborough University
  • Prof Heiko Balzter, Professor of Physical Geography and Director of the Institute for Environmental Futures, Leicester University
  • William Wells, Chief Executive, Leicester Space Park [Chair]
  • Industry representative TBC

With the Government’s vision to rebuild Britain grounded in industrial renewal and climate leadership, this event will spotlight how policymakers, academia and industry can collaborate to drive clean energy innovation, create skilled jobs and revitalise local economies.

Investing in Her Game: Women's Sport as a Catalyst for National Growth, Improving Health and Spreading Opportunity

Monday 29 September 12.00-13.30 in the Connect Hub, Arena Room 3 in the ACC

Speakers:

  • Stephanie Peacock MP, Minister for Sport
  • Jo Maher, Pro Vice-Chancellor for Sport, Loughborough University
  • Tonia Antoniazzi MP, Chair of Rugby APPG
  • Suzy Wrack, Guardian Women’s Sport Writer [Chair]
  • Sue Day MBE, Director of Women’s Sport, Football Association

Women’s sport is set to generate over £1 billion annually by 2030, easing NHS pressures and widening opportunities for women and girls. After the successes of the Lionesses’ and Women’s Rugby team, the momentum has never been stronger. Having invested over £2 million in a new Women in Sport Research and Innovation Hub, Loughborough University — ranked world number one in sports-related subjects for nine years running — would be delighted for you to join our event at this exciting time for equality and opportunity.

Universities: Fuelling Growth, Unlocking Investment

Tuesday 30 September: 09.00-11.00 at Revolución de Cuba, Albert Dock

Speakers:

  • Samantha Niblett MP, MP for South Derbyshire
  • Vivienne Stern, UUK CEO
  • Other speakers TBC

This session will explore how universities act as engines of economic growth, attracting investment, creating high-value jobs and driving innovation across the UK. Speakers will discuss how closer collaboration between government, industry and higher education can unlock even greater impact for local and national economies.

Conservative Conference

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Reform Conference

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