Conference
The London Conference 2017
Programme
Agenda
Cities have long been seen as great engines of wealth and opportunity. But are they now increasingly generating inequality as well? What are the cultural and political ramifications of this? How can we create less divisive cities?
For too many Londoners, the city is no longer delivering on its promise. Do we need to rethink the fundamentals of London’s economic and political model? Are there new ideas and approaches to growth and inclusivity that the capital should be adopting? What new powers and forms of government would London need to create a fairer city? What will future demographic and technological changes mean for London’s future, and how can we prepare for those now?
Chair: Charles Leadbeater Author and Social Innovator
Stephanie Flanders, Senior Executive Director and Head of Bloomberg Economics Bloomberg
Danny Kruger, Senior Fellow Legatum Institute
Henrietta Moore, Director of the Institute for Global Prosperity University College London
Anthony Painter, Director of the Action and Research Centre The RSA
Women are still poorly represented in senior positions in London’s businesses. In addition to being unfair, is this hurting London’s productivity? What can we do about it?
London’s future success as fair and prosperous city depends on its ability to develop talent. How can we best prepare London’s workforce to take advantage of future opportunities in a swiftly changing world of work?
Coffee break
Returning by popular demand, these brief visual presentations (20 slides of 20 seconds each) offer new ideas for London. The audience will vote for the winning concept.
Peter Mandelson reflects on his grandfather, Herbert Morrison, former leader of the London County Council, London’s role in the UK, and what Brexit might mean for the capital.
Lunch
London government has long campaigned to be given more powers over taxes and services. But central government has been uneasy about letting go. Does Brexit strengthen or weaken the case for giving London more power? What opportunities and challenges are presented by post-Brexit politics for the capital?
Start-up city
London attracts entrepreneurs from across the UK and abroad. They can make a vital contribution to the capital’s economy, local communities and life-chances. But how easy is it to start up a business in London – especially if you are from a less advantaged background? Are London’s entrepreneurs getting the support they need?
Is inclusive regeneration possible in London?
The relationship between regeneration and inclusivity is complicated. New development can bring much needed housing and jobs to an area, but those homes and jobs don’t always go to local people. As an area “improves” so prices can rise, squeezing locals out. Development can also change the identity of an area, further marginalising longer term residents. Can we create inclusive places in the capital?
Maria Vassilakou has been Deputy Mayor of the Austrian capital since 2010. She has overseen the transformation of Vienna’s transport system and public realm, and emerged as a leading voice for a more open and inclusive capital.
Coffee break
A brief talk from Catherine McGuinness, new Chairman of the City of London’s Policy and Resources Committee.
Journalist, TV presenter and Kensington & Chelsea resident Emily Maitlis won widespread acclaim for her coverage of the Grenfell Fire. She reflects on what she saw, what she learned and what she still wants to know.
In the aftermath of Grenfell, it became evident that many Londoners feel their efforts to create political change in their neighbourhoods fall on deaf ears. Are they right? How has social media changed the way we engage in politics and campaign for change? How can we deliver on the promise of a more participatory city?