Baroness Thornton, Shadow Spokesperson for Women and Equalities, delivered the keynote address as part of a continuing series of engagements with Labour Shadow leadership team.

Jointly hosted by DRD and global talent advisory, Green Park, the breakfast was attended by business leaders from a range of sectors, interested in what the Labour Party’s policy priorities are, and to explain its plans for the future of equality, diversity and inclusion (‘EDI’) in the UK.

Baroness Thornton began by outlining the Labour Party’s focus on being an effective opposition, regular engagement with business, industry and the third sector, and the development of its manifesto policies. She cited EDI as a fundamental element of this, acknowledging the progress that has been made over the past decade, thanks to the Equality Act of 2010. She also highlighted the need to continue to push for progress and for government departments to avoid working in silos to achieve greater impact.

She described Labour’s ongoing engagement with a diverse range of industries, business leaders and organisations across the UK as the Party seeks to canvas views and understand the current outlook relevant to the Party’s leader, Keir Starmer’s, five missions. With Labour aiming to settle its views on core policy pledges ahead of its Party conference in October.

Baroness Thornton stated that the Party’s Frontbench is currently meeting monthly to discuss each department’s proposals for taking action as Starmer sets a clear focus on policy “impact” on key challenges currently facing the country, including EDI.

Baroness Thornton spoke about the need for systemic change in order to achieve true equality. She emphasised the importance of equal opportunities for children, and the critical role that plays in ensuring equality and diversity in the workplace, empowering communities and individuals and ensuring that everyone has a voice in the decisions that affect their lives; an inspiring call to action.

The event highlighted the progress that has been made in the fight for equality, but also reminded attendees that there is still a long way to go and that we all have a responsibility to work towards a more equal and just society.  She invited her audience to come together and work with colleagues in their businesses or charities and advocate for change, so together we can create a better future for everyone – something she promised she would help the Labour Party to tackle head on.