Labour and Liberal Democrat thought

Last week the society held the first in a series of seminars with the Social Liberal Forum, which will aim to explore overlap and common ground in the political ideas of Labour and the Liberal Democrats. The series aims to create dialogue and mutual understanding regarding the principles and values which inform the policy thinking of the two parties. The Social Liberal Forum is a membership organisation on the left of the Liberal Democrats, so is a natural partner for this project.

The first seminar explored the legacy of the Beveridge report which forms a crucial part of the heritage of each party. The speakers were Kate Green MP and Andrew Harrop for the Fabians and John Pugh MP and Lord Kirkwood for the Social Liberal Forum. The meeting considered the modern ‘giants’ progressive politics needs to confront, the values embodied in Beveridge’s view of the state and strategies to rebuild a strong welfare system.

Following the seminar, Andrew Harrop sets out his reflections on the modern lessons of the Beveridge Report here.

Fabian members who would be interested in participating in future meetings in the series are invited to register their interest by emailing Olly Parker.