Political engagement at party conferences 2023

UKHospitality’s laser-like focus on political engagement means that we are always well-represented at these annual conferences. This year was no exception, as we took the opportunity to cement existing relations with Secretaries of State, Ministers, advisors and – at Labour – their counterparts.  

As purely party political events, and while UKHospitality is necessarily apolitical in its activities, these gatherings are a chance to engage with Government Ministers without the (sometimes cumbersome) machinery of Government and civil service. They are a chance to speak freely and informally about political objectives, shaping hospitality’s aims and ambitions in the raw political aims of our elected representatives and, especially this year, even to land our messages on those seeking election next years, too – the politicians of the future. 

The list of top-level politicians that Kate and the team have met over the past weeks are simply not be achievable outside of conference. We needed to be diligent in best using our time to represent and promote your interests and objectives at fringe events, on discussion panels (both as guests and hosts of our own events), debates and at more informal events such as dinners and receptions.  

In doing so, and with an impressive presence from hospitality businesses and our membership, our voice was heard not only by political audiences but those in industry and media, too, boosting the perceptions and understanding of our sector in manifest ways. 

With an Autumn Statement only weeks away, and with much of the conferences’ focuses being on pre-election footing, it was an ideal time to be landing our tailored messages to each party, on how current and future governments can act to help grow demand, to help us meet that demand and on unlocking investment. Suffice to say that in doing so, our engagement was diverse, covering issues such as business rates, VAT, apprenticeship levy reform, workforce, planning and many more.