Liberal Democrats focus on Growth, Skills and AI at Annual Party Conference

This week, the Liberal Democrats gathered in Brighton for their annual party conference. As the third largest party in the House of Commons, the conference provided an opportunity for the party leadership to make headlines and set out its policy agenda afresh, two years into the Parliament and amid speculation about the timing of the next General Election.

 

Tax and the Economy

 

In his keynote speech, Sir Ed Davey unveiled a significant tax package aimed at supporting middle-income earners. The proposals include raising the personal income tax allowance to £15,000 and increasing the threshold for the 40% tax rate from around £50,000 to £56,000. The party argues these changes would prevent more workers, including teachers and nurses, from being drawn into higher-rate taxation. Liberal Democrats say the measures would be funded through economic growth generated by rejoining the EU Single Market and Customs Union.

 

AI, Technology and Skills

 

Artificial intelligence (AI) was a dominant theme throughout the conference. Party speakers backed greater adoption of AI where it can boost productivity and improve public services, while stressing the importance of human oversight. The Liberal Democrats also called for stronger regulation of technology companies and an international approach to managing the development of advanced AI systems.

A consistent message was that AI should complement workers rather than replace them, with investment in skills seen as critical to ensuring people can benefit from technological change and avoid widening inequalities.

 

Growth and Investment

 

Economic growth and investment featured prominently in discussions led by Deputy Leader and Treasury spokesperson Daisy Cooper. The party outlined proposals to improve access to finance for SMEs, encourage investment and provide greater certainty for businesses.

 

Liberal Democrat speakers also called for reforms to what they see as an overly cautious regulatory environment, arguing that closer collaboration between policymakers, regulators and industry is needed to support innovation, productivity and long-term growth.

 

Youth Employment and Apprenticeships

 

Youth employment emerged as a key priority. Conference discussions focused on tackling the growing number of young people not in education, employment or training (NEETs).

 

Proposals included introducing 100 hours of guaranteed work experience, expanding careers guidance, strengthening technical education and helping SMEs engage with apprenticeship programmes through shared apprenticeship models. Concerns were also raised that AI could reduce some entry-level job opportunities, increasing the importance of equipping young people with the skills needed for a changing labour market.

 

Health and Social Care Workforce

 

Health and social care also remained high on the agenda - previously the flagship Lib Dem policy area. Delegates highlighted workforce shortages across the NHS and care sectors, calling for a long-term workforce plan, improved staff retention and better career progression. While supporting the use of AI to reduce administrative burdens, speakers emphasised that healthcare must remain centred on human-led care and improving access to services.

 

Across the conference, a common thread was the Liberal Democrats' focus on combining economic growth with investment in skills, workforce development and public service reform, while seeking to position themselves as a pragmatic voice on the opportunities and challenges presented by AI.

 

What does this mean for the REC?
 

Many of these themes align closely with the REC's policy priorities, particularly around labour market participation, skills development, apprenticeships, workforce planning and ensuring businesses can access the talent they need to grow. As these policy discussions develop, there will be a number of opportunities for the REC to engage constructively with Liberal Democrat parliamentarians and the party leadership on shared priorities.

 

The REC will be attending both the Labour and Conservative Party Conferences. We will continue to keep members updated on key announcements, policy developments and events from across the party conference season. If you would like to arrange a meeting with one of at the team at either party conference, please contact campaigns@rec.uk.com.

 

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