The Labour Party's annual conference began on Sunday at the ACC Liverpool, with opening day events marked by a firm commitment to the Hillsborough Law, strong criticism of Reform UK, and significant protests that disrupted traffic in the city centre. Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer and key party figures have gathered as the government faces challenges with public opinion.
Key Takeaways
- The Labour Party conference is underway in Liverpool, running until Wednesday.
- Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer reaffirmed his commitment to enacting the Hillsborough Law in its entirety.
- Liverpool City Council Leader Liam Robinson strongly criticized Reform UK in his opening address.
- A new 'Forces First' housing policy for military personnel was announced by the party.
- A large protest blocked traffic on The Strand near the conference venue.
Conference Kicks Off at ACC Liverpool
The 2025 Labour Party conference has returned to Liverpool, with party members and leaders convening at the ACC on the city's waterfront. The event began on Sunday morning, setting the stage for several days of policy announcements and speeches from senior government figures, including Chancellor Rachel Reeves and Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer.
This year's conference takes place as the Labour government navigates a challenging political landscape, with recent opinion polls showing the party is lagging. The atmosphere is notably different from the previous year's event, which followed a significant general election victory.
Liam Robinson's Opening Address
Proceedings in the main hall were opened by Liverpool City Council Leader, Councillor Liam Robinson. In his speech, Cllr Robinson welcomed attendees to the city and highlighted its recent progress, referencing the innovation district, potential for tidal power on the River Mersey, and the growth of the Baltic Triangle.
He also noted the city's strong Labour presence, stating, "It is wonderful once more to welcome you back to a proud Labour city where we have a strong Labour council, where all of our MPs are Labour, a Labour Metro Mayor, a Labour police and crime Commissioner."
Political Context
The conference follows a period of internal challenges for the Labour government, including several high-profile departures from the Prime Minister's team. Sir Keir Starmer is expected to use his keynote speech on Tuesday to address public perception and outline his government's future direction.
Hillsborough Law Takes Centre Stage
A significant and emotional moment on the first day was the focus on the long-campaigned-for Hillsborough Law. Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer addressed the conference hall, acknowledging the "unacceptably long and hard fight" for justice by the families and survivors of the 1989 disaster.
He then introduced Charlotte Hennessy, whose father, James, was one of the 97 people who died as a result of the tragedy. Ms. Hennessy spoke powerfully on behalf of the Hillsborough Law Now campaign group.
A Promise to Fulfil
Ms. Hennessy described the campaigners as "ordinary people who are thrown into an alien system, designed to shield the state from scrutiny and accountability." She shared details of a meeting with the Prime Minister at Downing Street.
"The prime minister made a promise and is fulfilling it: the Hillsborough Law in its entirety," she told the conference. She recalled telling Sir Keir, "Don’t let it be watered down," to which he reportedly replied, "It doesn’t need watering down, Charlotte."
Following her speech, the Liverpool Show Choir led a rendition of 'You'll Never Walk Alone', which resonated throughout the conference hall.
Labour Takes Aim at Reform UK
A recurring theme during the opening sessions was the political threat posed by Reform UK. With the right-wing party gaining traction in national polls, Labour speakers made a concerted effort to challenge its platform.
'Thatcher on Steroids'
In his opening speech, Cllr Liam Robinson issued a stark warning about the potential impact of Reform UK's policies. He described Liverpool as a "very proud anti-Tory city" before turning his attention to the new political challenge.
"Reform and Farage would be like Thatcher on Steroids dismantling our NHS and dividing our communities. It’s a fight we are ready for and a fight we’re up for," Cllr Robinson said.
Former party chairwoman Ellie Reeves also criticized the party, stating they were "importing failed Tories to help them write their policies." She added, "If the answer is Nadine Dorries, then you’re asking the wrong question."
Housing in Focus
Housing is a central theme of the conference. The issue of rising rental prices in Merseyside has been highlighted as a key concern that the Labour government has pledged to address during the event.
New Policies and Protests Mark Opening Day
Beyond the main stage speeches, the first day saw a new policy announcement and external activities that drew attention to the conference.
'Forces First' Housing Initiative
The Labour Party announced a new homeownership plan aimed at Armed Forces families and veterans. The 'Forces First' initiative intends to boost housebuilding on Ministry of Defence land, prioritising service personnel for new homes.
According to John Healey, Labour’s Defence Secretary, the policy is designed to address the "shameful state" of Armed Forces housing. He stated, "Our new ‘Forces First’ approach to building on MoD land will prioritise forces families and veterans for homeownership opportunities and deliver high-quality Service Family Accommodation."
Protests Disrupt City Centre Traffic
Outside the conference venue, a large protest caused significant disruption. Crowds gathered on The Strand, a major route through the city centre, blocking traffic. The demonstration included a large number of people on foot, as well as scooters and two large tractors, making passage difficult for vehicles.
Separately, a campaign group called Patriotic Millionaires UK used a large digital billboard opposite Lime Street station to send a message to arriving politicians. The screen displayed the words: "Tax wealth, not work. Dear Chancellor, tax us, the super rich."