Conservative Party Conference 2026: A new-look Conservative Party preparing itself for government in Kemi Badenoch's image

The REC attended Conservative Party Conference in Birmingham this week, where much of the discussion focused on how the party rebuilds its agenda and presents itself as an alternative government.

 

While media coverage concentrated on attendance in the main conference hall, fringe events remained busy and discussions were generally well attended. Although there was less business and sponsor activity than when the Conservatives were in government, activists appeared engaged and focused on the party's future direction.

 

Policy was at the heart of the conference, with the Conservatives using the week to define their agenda under Kemi Badenoch's leadership. Debates focused on economic growth, public service reform, workforce participation and personal responsibility, themes reinforced by the publication of The Right Way. Badenoch's influence was evident throughout, with her priorities shaping discussions across the conference.

 

A focus on growth

 

Like at Labour Conference, economic growth, and the lack of it, was the dominant theme.

 

Across fringe events and policy discussions, speakers repeatedly returned to a familiar set of priorities: boosting investment, increasing productivity and creating the conditions for businesses to grow. The focus was firmly on attracting private capital, supporting innovation, cutting red tape and strengthening cities and regions.

 

The overall message was clear: growth must be the foundation for rising living standards, stronger public finances and national prosperity. Alongside this came a consistent emphasis on lower taxes, reduced regulation and greater support for enterprise.

 

One of the most visible figures at conference was Shadow Chancellor Andrew Griffith, who has emerged as a key voice shaping the party's economic agenda. His focus was firmly on growth, competitiveness and innovation, including calls for proportionate AI regulation, stronger security safeguards and greater adoption of new technologies to boost productivity.

 

Economic inactivity, the future of work and skills

 

Repealing the Employment Rights Act

 

Employment policy was another major area of discussion. The Conservatives repeatedly stated that they would repeal the Employment Rights Act in its current form if returned to government, arguing that some of its measures could undermine labour market flexibility.

 

Particular concerns were raised about guaranteed hours proposals, with speakers warning of potential unintended consequences for employers, younger workers and those seeking entry-level opportunities. Throughout the conference, the argument was framed not only as an employment issue but also as a growth issue, with businesses needing the confidence and flexibility to create jobs and expand.

 

Getting Britain back to work

 

Alongside discussions on employment rights, economic inactivity emerged as one of the conference's most significant themes. Reform of welfare and employment support systems featured prominently, reflecting a growing view within the party that increasing workforce participation will be essential to supporting economic growth and addressing labour shortages.

 

Speakers frequently highlighted the importance of helping more people move into work and remain connected to the labour market, with employment viewed as both an economic and social good. Particular attention was given to those furthest from work, including the growing number of young people who are not in education, employment or training (NEET).

 

Young people and skills

 

The issue of NEETs appeared repeatedly across discussions on welfare, skills, productivity and economic growth, with concern about the long-term consequences for both individuals and the economy.

 

For a party placing growth at the centre of its agenda, reducing youth inactivity is increasingly being viewed as an economic priority as much as a social one. Laura Trott was among those arguing that entry-level and flexible opportunities must be protected if more young people are to gain a foothold in the labour market.

 

Education and skills were also prominent themes, with discussions focusing on vocational pathways, technical education and how to better connect education with employment. A recurring message was the need to ensure young people develop the skills employers need and can access clear routes into sustainable work.

 

What this means for REC members

 

This year's Conservative Party Conference highlighted a party increasingly focused on growth, workforce participation and opportunity. For REC members, the most significant takeaway was the prominence of discussions around economic inactivity, NEETs and skills. Alongside the Conservatives' commitment to repealing the Employment Rights Act, these issues are likely to remain central to debates about the future of the labour market, creating important opportunities for recruiters to contribute practical expertise and solutions.