The North West’s vital role in shaping the future of Labour was celebrated at the regional conference held in Chester last weekend.
This milestone event brought party members together to reflect on the region’s significant contributions to securing Labour’s first general election victory in 14 years.
The North West still stands as a stronghold for the party, boasting the highest number of Labour MPs in the country.
Doors opened at 9 am, with the chair delivering opening remarks shortly after.
Angela Rayner, the deputy prime minister and secretary of state for housing, took the stage to deliver a speech celebrating the July victory and outlining a shared vision for transforming the nation.
She spoke passionately about her personal experiences growing up in social housing, which set the stage for a panel discussion on housing.
The panel, featuring an MP, members of Labour YIMBY (Yes In My Backyard), and others involved in the housing industry, focused on the need to accelerate housing development in the North West.
Attendees were then invited to ask questions which covered key concerns, including accessibility for people with disabilities in rented housing.
During a short break, attendees visited exhibition stalls representing various organisations, including the Co-operative Party, USDAW, and the Labour Shop.
The conference reconvened with a keynote speech by Lisa Nandy, the culture secretary, who delivered an inspiring speech on creating equal opportunities for all children.
People then split into smaller groups for training sessions tailored to different interests and roles.
These included: sessions on becoming a councillor, digital door-knocking, and an introduction for new members.
The sessions concluded before a lunch break, during which attendees enjoyed meals at the university cafeteria.
The conference resumed with the final keynote address by Sarah Russell, the first ever Labour MP for Congleton.
Her speech highlighted the significance of progress in areas long considered out of reach for the party like her own constituency.
The conference concluded with a two hour motions debate which gave delegates from across the North West the opportunity to raise pressing issues.
Topics ranged from housing to devolution, with proposals requiring another delegate to second it before being put to a vote.
The event was not only a celebration of Labour’s success in the region but also a call to action, emphasising the North West’s crucial role in shaping the future of the party and the country.
