Plain text Agenda Liberal Democrats Autumn Conference 16-19 September 2017 Bournemouth OPEN, TOLERANT AND UNITED Plain text This plain text version of the Conference Agenda contains the text of the published Agenda. Note that motion line numbers have been omitted and page numbers refer to the pages in the Clearprint Agenda. Graphics are omitted. Some elements may appear in a different location to that in the printed Agenda. The Agenda and Directory and other conference publications, in PDF, plain text and clear print formats, are available online at www.libdems.org.uk/conference_papers Welcome to the Liberal Democrat 2017 Conference Agenda. If you have any questions whilst at conference please ask a conference steward or go to the Information Desk in the main foyer of Bournemouth International Centre. For features, general conference information, exhibition and fringe, see the separate Directory. Conference venue Bournemouth International Centre (BIC), Exeter Road, Bournemouth, BH2 5BH. Please note that the BIC is within the secure zone and that access is only possible with a valid conference pass. Further information, registration and conference publications (including plain text and clear print versions) are available at: www.libdems.org.uk/conference Contents Information: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-7 Information: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-10 Auditorium information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 Conference timetable 2018 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 Agenda: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11-58 Agenda index and timetable . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 Saturday 16 September . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13 Sunday 17 September . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27 Monday 18 September . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39 Tuesday 19 September . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51 Federal Party . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59-60 ISBN 978-1-910763-38-4 Edited by Emma Price and published by The Conference Office, Liberal Democrats, 8-10 Great George Street, London SW1P 3AE. Design and layout by Mike Cooper, mike@mikecoopermcc.co.uk. Printed by Park Communications Ltd,Alpine Way, London E6 6LA. Photographs - Liberal Democrats unless stated. Auditorium information Information concerning the conduct of the main conference sessions is listed on the following pages of this Agenda. The formal rules of conference are set out in standing orders, which will be available on the Party website and from the Information Desk at conference. Conference Extra and Conference Daily Conference Extra shows any changes to auditorium timings shown in this Agenda, amendments to motions, topical issues, emergency motions and questions to reports. Conference Daily includes last-minute changes to the auditorium timetable; collect your copy from the Information Desk each morning for the latest updates. Venue Access to the BIC is possible only with a valid, conference pass worn with the official lanyard. You will be asked to show your pass when you enter the secure area and you are required to wear the pass visibly at all times within the area. Do allow time for security check queues during key times - particularly after lunch and ahead of popular events. Be aware that flash photography is frequently used in the auditorium. Please ensure that all mobile phones are on silent before entering the auditorium. Disabled facilities - Space for wheelchair users on the ground floor of the auditorium. - Ramped access to the stage; the chair of the session will ensure wheelchair users are called in plenty of time to access the stage. - An induction loop system, which can be linked to hearing aids; please ask a member of the stewarding team to direct you to the appropriate seating block. - Sign language interpretation during all auditorium sessions; a number of seats are reserved for attendees using this service, at the front of the auditorium to the left of the stage. - Reserved seats at the front of the auditorium for those who would benefit from being closer to the stage due to a visual impairment. If you need assistance at the venue, please contact the Information desk where our dedicated steward will be on hand to help. If you need assistance or information in advance, please contact the Conference Team on conferences@libdems.org.uk Debates and votes at conference Debates on policy and business motions are at the heart of federal conference. It is through them that the party sets its policy and future direction. Unlike in other parties, Liberal Democrat members are sovereign, and what they decide really matters. The structure of debate on policy and business motions: Proposer of the motion speaks V Proposers of any amendments speak in turn V Speakers called on all sides of the debate with the chair seeking to ensure balance V Interventions taken (if listed on the agenda) V Summators of amendments speak in turn V The summator of the motion speaks V The chair takes votes for and against the amendments and separate votes (if any) in turn V A vote will be taken on the motion as a whole Interventions: concise (one minute) speeches made from the intervention microphone(s) on the floor of the auditorium, during debates where it is indicated in the Agenda. Amendments: all motions except emergency motions are open to amendment; amendments accepted will be printed in Conference Daily. Voting: decisions on most motions and all amendments and separate votes are by simple majority of those voting (2/3 majority for constitutional amendments). To vote, voting members must show their voting badge whilst seated on the ground floor of the auditorium. Separate votes: a vote to delete or retain the specified words or section. A request for a separate vote may be submitted by any party member: by the start of the first conference session on the day before the debate is scheduled, or by the deadline for emergency motions for debates scheduled for the first day of conference; using the online form at libdems.org.uk/conference_papers, by email to separate.votes@libdems.org.uk, or in writing to the SpeakersÕ Table in the auditorium. Counted vote: the chair of the session may decide that a vote needs to be counted. Any voting member may request a count from the floor; if fifty voting members stand and show their voting cards, a count will be taken. Speaking and voting in conference debates Eligibility to speak and vote All party members are entitled to speak and vote in conference debates, providing they are: - attending conference as a party member (and not eg an exhibitor or observer); and - not registered as a day visitor. Party members fulfilling these criteria are known as Ôvoting membersÕ. Federal Conference Committee may also give permission for other persons to speak (but not vote) in conference debates. Length of speeches The length of speeches is shown against each motion in the Agenda. There are three lights on the speakerÕs rostrum and visible either side of the stage. The green light is switched on at the beginning of the speech. The amber light is switched on 60 seconds before the end of the allowed time (20 seconds before the end of an intervention). The red light is switched on when all the time is used up, and the speaker must stop immediately. Applying to speak To make a speech in a debate you must complete a speaker's card, collected from and returned to the Speakers' Table at the front of the auditorium, an auditorium steward or the Information Desk. Completing a speakerÕs card When completing a speakerÕs card, remember: 1 Submit your card well in advance. The chair and aide team for the debate will meet well in advance to plan the debate - sometimes the previous day. 2 Fill in your card completely. Complete the two sections on the back of the card as well as the front. These sections are needed for the chair and aide to balance the debate, so they can call people with relevant experience and avoid a string of people making the same point. 3 Make sure it-s readable! DonÕt fill every square centimetre of the card; don't write illegibly, in very small letters, or in green ink - The easier you make it for the chair and aide to read the card the more likely you will be called. Interventions To speak during interventions, voting members should complete an intervention form, collected from and returned to a steward in the auditorium. Speakers will be chosen by the chair of the session by random ballot. Other conference sessions Emergency motions and topical issue discussions Emergency motions are debated and voted on and make formal party policy like other motions, but refer to a substantial development since the deadline for submission of motions. Motions selected for debate, and/or for selection by ballot along with the ballot procedure, will be printed in SaturdayÕs Conference Daily. Topical issue discussions allow members and spokespeople to discuss and comment on a political issue live at the time of conference; they do not make party policy. The topical issue to be discussed is chosen by officers of the Federal Conference Committee and Federal Policy Committee and will be printed in SaturdayÕs Conference Daily. Question & answer sessions Any party member may submit a concise question (maximum 25 words) on the subject of the session, or on any subject for the LeaderÕs Q&A. Questions will be selected by the chair and put by the submitter from the intervention microphones in the auditorium. Questions may be submitted using the online form: - at libdems.org.uk/conference_submissions. - by 13.00 Monday 4 September. Questions may also be submitted on a form collected from and returned to the SpeakersÕ Table in the auditorium by: 12.50 Sunday 17 September. Reports The reports of Federal Committees and Parliamentary Parties are printed in the separate reports document. Any party member may submit concise questions (maximum 25 words) on these reports. The chair will select which questions will be asked. Questions to reports of the Parliamentary Parties may relate to any aspect of Liberal Democrat activities in the UK or European Parliaments. Questions may be submitted using the online form: - at libdems.org.uk/conference_submissions. - by 13.00 Monday 4 September. Questions received by the deadlines above will be printed in Conference Extra. Questions on events occurring after the deadlines above may be submitted on speakerÕs cards at the SpeakersÕ Table up until one hour before the start of the relevant session. Submitting amendments, emergency motions, topical issues and appeals Amendments and emergency motions Amendments and emergency motions must be: - signed by 10 party members; OR - submitted by one or more of: a local party, state party, regional party in England, Federal Specified Associated Organisation or Federal Party Committee. Amendments and emergency motions must be submitted by 13.00 Monday 4 September. Submitters should include: - For amendments - a short explanation of the intended effect of the amendment. - For emergency motions - a short explanation of its emergency nature. Topical issues Suggestions for topical issues may be submitted by any party member by: 13.00 Monday 4 September. The title of the issue should be no more than ten words, and should not include an expression of opinion; please include full contact details of the submitter and up to 100 words explanatory background. Drafting advice Submitters are encouraged to use our drafting advice service: draft amendments and emergency motions should be submitted by: 13.00 Monday 21 August. Amendments, emergency motions and topical issues should be submitted to the Policy Unit: - using the online form at www.libdems.org.uk/conference_submissions - or by post to Policy Unit, 8-10 Great George Street, London SW1P 3AE. Appeals Appeals against the non-inclusion of emergency motions or amendments must be signed by the original drafting contact and should be no longer than one side of an A4 sheet; give a contact name and telephone number; include a copy of the motion/amendment to which they relate; and give justification for the appeal and new information Conference Committee was unaware of when it made its decision. Appeals should be sent to: appeals@libdems.org.uk and submitted by: 09.00 Thursday 14 September. Conference timetable 2018 9-11 March 2018, Southport Drafting advice deadline (motions): 13.00, Wednesday, 27 December 2017. Motions deadline: 13.00, Wednesday, 10 January 2018. Drafting advice deadline (amendments, emergency motions): 13.00, Tuesday, 20 February 2018. Deadline for amendments to motions, emergency motions, topical issues, questions to reports: 13.00, Tuesday, 6 March 2018. 15-18/19 September 2018, Brighton Drafting advice deadline (motions): 13.00, Wednesday, 13 June 2018. Motions deadline: 13.00, Wednesday, 27 June 2018. Drafting advice deadline (amendments, emergency motions): 13.00, Monday, 20 August 2018. Deadline for amendments to motions, emergency motions, topical issues, questions to reports: 13.00, Monday, 3 September 2018. Agenda index and timetable Saturday 16 September 09.00-09.05 F1 Opening of Conference by Baroness Brinton . . . . . . . . . . . 13 09.05-09.15 F2 Report: Federal Conference Committee . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13 09.15-09.25 F3 Report: Federal Policy Committee . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13 09.25-10.10 F4 Policy motion: Learning to Communicate in English . . . . . . . 14 10.10-11.40 F5 Consultative session: Party Strategy Consultation . . . . . . . 15 11.40-12.30 F6 Policy motion: The Paris Agreement and UK Climate Change Policy . 16 12.30-12.50 F7 Speech: Layla Moran MP . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19 12.50-14.10 Lunch 14.10-15.25 F8 Policy motion: The Impact of Brexit on Public Services . . . . 19 15.25-15.45 F9 Speech: Baroness Brinton . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22 15.45-17.00 F10 Policy motion: Natural Environment Policy . . . . . . . . . . 22 17.00-17.50 F11 Report: Federal Board . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25 17.50-18.00 F12 Report: Campaign for Gender Balance . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25 F13 Membership Subscription . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26 Sunday 17 September 09.00-09.10 F14 Report: Federal Appeals Panel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27 09.10-10.00 F15 Report: Parliamentary Parties . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28 10.00-10.45 F16 Policy motion: Armed Forces Personnel: Recruitment, Retention and Welfare . 28 10.45-12.30 F17 Consultative session: Europe . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31 12.30-12.50 F18 Speech: Jo Swinson MP . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33 12.50-14.10 Lunch 14.10-15.10 F19 Question and answer session: Leader . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33 15.10-15.30 F20 Speech: Kirsty Williams AM . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33 15.30-16.45 F21 Policy motion: Safe Building Standards for all Homes . . . . . 34 16.45-18.00 F22 Policy motion: Centenary of Balfour Declaration . . . . . . . . 36 Monday 18 September 09.00-10.00 F23 Emergency motion or topical issue . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39 10.00-11.00 F24 Policy motion: Defeating Terrorism, Protecting Liberties . . . 39 11.00-11.20 F25 Speech: Tim Farron MP . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42 11.20-14.10 Lunch 14.10-15.10 F26 Policy motion: Employment in the 21st Century . . . . . . . . . 43 15.10-15.30 F27 Speech: Willie Rennie MSP . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46 15.30-16.30 F28 Policy motion: Encouraging Companies to be Responsible Corporate Citizens . 46 16.30-18.00 F29 Consultative session: Manifesto Feedback . . . . . . . . . . . 50 Tuesday 19 September 09.00-09.35 F30 Policy motion: European Atomic Energy Community . . . . . . . . 51 09.40-11.10 F31 Emergency motion or topical issue . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53 11.10-11.50 F32 Policy motion: Protecting Small Businesses . . . . . . . . . . 54 11.50-12.10 F33 Speech: Norman Lamb MP . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56 12.10-12.50 F34 Policy motion: Gun and Knife Crime . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56 12.50-14.10 Lunch 14.10-15.30 F35 Speech: Rt Hon Sir Vince Cable MP . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58 (approx.) All conference sessions take place in the Auditorium in the Bournemouth International Centre (BIC). A plan of the venue is printed in the Directory and is available as a separate document at www.libdems.org.uk/conference. Saturday 16 September 09.00 Party business Chair: Baroness Brinton. Aide: Susan Juned. Hall Aide: Alex Hegenbarth. F1 Opening of Conference by Baroness Brinton, President of the Liberal Democrats @salbrinton, #LDconf 09.05 Party business Chair: Mary Reid. Aide: Victor Chamberlain. Hall Aide: Liz Lynne. F2 Federal Conference Committee Report Mover: Andrew Wiseman (Chair, Federal Conference Committee) The deadline for questions to this report is 13.00, Monday 4 September. Questions selected will be detailed in Conference Extra. Questions on events occurring after the deadline may be submitted up until 08.50 on Saturday 16 September. See page 7 for further information. F3 Federal Policy Committee Report Mover: Duncan Brack (Vice Chair, Federal Policy Committee) The deadline for questions to this report is 13.00, Monday 4 September. Questions selected will be detailed in Conference Extra. Questions on events occurring after the deadline may be submitted up until 08.50 on Saturday 16 September. See page 7 for further information. 09.25 Policy motion Chair: Geoff Payne (Vice Chair, Federal Conference Committee). Aide: Nicholas da Costa. Hall Aide: Susan Juned. F4 Learning to Communicate in English 16 members Mover: Wera Hobhouse MP Summation: To be announced Conference notes with concern that: i) England does not have a strategy for the teaching of English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL), unlike Scotland and Wales. ii) According to the 2011 Census, at least 726,000 people in the UK do not speak English ÔwellÕ, and this is likely to be an underestimate. iii) Government funding for ESOL has been cut by 60% in real terms between 2009/10 and 2015/16, whilst additional funding for job seekers and ring-fenced funding for community education have both been removed. iv) Consequently, enrolment in state-funded ESOL classes has fallen by 43% over the same period. Conference believes that: a) In order to champion the freedom of individuals and enable them to contribute to their communities, the Government and devolved administrations must have a crucial role in funding ESOL provision. b) Funding for ESOL classes should be allocated with transparency and based on robust evidence. Conference calls on the Government to: 1. Establish a national ESOL strategy for England that will include recommendations to improve collaboration between local ESOL providers and to create a national ESOL champion. 2. Require every local education authority to publish a ÔLanguage Needs AssessmentÕ that must identify the need for ESOL provision in the authorityÕs area, identify target groups and outline how it intends to address this need. 3. Require local authorities to maintain an ÔESOL hubÕ website with information about how to access learning opportunities. 4. Incentivise employers to contribute towards the cost of ESOL classes for their employees. 5. Work on a cross-party basis and with awarding organisations and ESOL providers to modernise the ESOL Qualifications and Curriculum Framework. 6. Create Ôfast-trackÕ pathways for ESOL learners into employment by promoting partnerships between adult education colleges and businesses in need of language skills, such as export firms. Applicability: England only. Mover: 7 minutes; summation of motion and movers and summation of any amendments: 4 minutes; all other speakers: 3 minutes. For eligibility and procedure for speaking in this debate, see page 5. The deadline for amendments to this motion - see page 8 - and for requests for separate votes - see page 5 - is 13.00, Monday 4 September. Those selected for debate will be printed in SaturdayÕs Conference Daily. 10.10 Consultative session Chair: To be announced. Aide: To be announced. Hall Aide: To be announced. F5 Party Strategy Consultation The Federal Board is tasked with preparing a document outlining the PartyÕs strategy for debate and agreement by Conference. This process had already begun prior to the General Election this June, although it had to be halted once the election was called. This session is an opportunity for members to feed in to the strategyÕs drafting group and to ask questions of key members of that group. It is also a forum to allow members to propose radical new approaches which the Party should consider adopting, in all aspects of its work. A background document has been compiled which can be found at www.libdems.org.uk/party_strategy_2017 alongside an earlier consultation document and an electronic survey to enable all members to participate even if they canÕt make it to the session. In addition to this consultation session, members are very welcome to visit the Federal Board Helpdesk by the Information Desk to talk to a member of the Federal Board about the PartyÕs Strategy, or to fill in the survey. A panel of speakers will introduce the session and give brief responses to the points made. 11.40 Policy motion Chair: Zo‘ OÕConnell (Vice Chair, Federal Conference Committee). Aide: Jennie Rigg. Hall Aide: James Gurling. F6 The Paris Agreement and UK Climate Change Policy 26 members Mover: Baroness Featherstone Summation: Duncan Brack Conference welcomes the entry into force of the Paris Agreement on climate change in November 2016, and its aim of holding the increase in global average temperature to well below 2øC, and if possible less than 1.5øC, above pre-industrial levels, in order significantly to reduce the risks and impacts of climate change. Conference recognises that the policies necessary to achieve the UKÕs contribution to these goals will bring major economic and social benefits, including improved economic competitiveness, growth in jobs, exports and prosperity, higher levels of energy security, a reduction in air pollution and the end of fuel poverty. Conference applauds the increasing number of countries and major international companies which are now implementing their own ambitious climate strategies in the recognition that the transition to a low-carbon economy will create opportunities for growth, jobs and prosperity. Conference condemns President TrumpÕs decision to withdraw the United States from the Paris Agreement, and regrets the Prime MinisterÕs anaemic response, and in particular her failure to sign the joint statement by the leaders of France, Germany and Italy. Conference recognises that the UK is not currently on track to meet its commitments to reduce greenhouse gas emissions under the 2008 Climate Change Act and that in any case the ActÕs target, of an 80 per cent reduction in emissions by 2050, is not itself sufficient to meet the aims of the Paris Agreement. Conference further condemns the Conservative governmentÕs repeated delays in publishing its proposals to reduce UK greenhouse gas emissions, which has created uncertainty over the UKÕs future intentions and significantly delayed new investment in renewable energy. Conference reaffirms the Liberal Democrat aim of reducing UK greenhouse gas emissions to net zero by 2050, and calls for an 80 per cent reduction by 2040, with the aim of meeting the Paris AgreementÕs 1.5øC goal. Conference believes that the fulfilment of these goals will require the implementation of a comprehensive low-carbon industrial strategy, including, among other elements: 1. Substantial and sustained investment in renewable electricity generation, including restoring government support for solar PV and onshore wind (helping meet climate targets at least cost), investing in tidal power (including proceeding with the Swansea Bay tidal lagoon), and supporting the development of demand management, smart grids, energy storage and interconnectors, to underpin this higher reliance on renewables. 2. Investment in a major programme of improving energy efficiency in homes, buildings and industry, coupled with support for low-carbon heat technologies, including heat pumps, fuel cells, district heating networks and renewable hydrogen and biogas delivered through the gas network. 3. Support for low-carbon transport, including promoting electric buses, taxis and cars, installing charging points for electric vehicles and encouraging city-level low-carbon transport strategies, including greater use of public transport, cycling and walking. 4. A restarted carbon capture and storage programme, aimed in particular at capturing emissions from industrial processes as well as gas-fired power generation. 5. A major programme of afforestation, measures to increase soil carbon levels and the conservation and restoration of peatland areas. 6. The closest possible cooperation with the EU on energy and climate policy, including continued membership of the internal energy market. Conference welcomes the decision of the FPC to produce a full policy paper on energy and climate policy for debate by conference. Applicability: Federal, except 2, 3, 4 and 5 (lines 44-59) which are England only. Mover: 7 minutes; summation of motion and movers and summation of any amendments: 4 minutes; all other speakers: 3 minutes. For eligibility and procedure for speaking in this debate, see page 5. The deadline for amendments to this motion - see page 8 - and for requests for separate votes - see page 5 - is 13.00, Monday 4 September. Those selected for debate will be printed in SaturdayÕs Conference Daily. 12.30 Speech Chair: Robert Adamson. Aide: Cara Jenkinson. Hall Aide: Jenni Lang. F7 Layla Moran MP @laylamoran, #LDconf 12.50 Lunch 14.10 Policy motion F8 The Impact of Brexit on Public Services Chair: Baroness Doocey. Aide: James Gurling (Chair of Federal Campaigns & Elections Committee). Hall Aide: Nicholas da Costa. Federal Policy Committee Mover: Baroness Ludford (Vice Chair, Federal Policy Committee) Summation: To be announced Conference notes: A. The commitment in both the Conservative and Labour manifestos to a hard Brexit, including abandoning membership of the European Single Market. B. The existing intense pressure on public services as a result of Conservative cuts to funding. C. That 5.5% of the total NHS medical workforce in England are non-UK EU nationals including 10% of all doctors, 7% of nurses, and more than 27,000 other staff, and that nearly 100,000 non-UK EU staff work in the social care system. D. That more than half of the 10,000 doctors from European Economic Area countries working in the NHS are considering leaving the UK because of the referendum result, and that applications from EU nurses to work in the NHS has fallen by 96% since the vote to leave the EU. E. That nearly 5,000 qualified EU teachers are awarded Qualified Teacher Status in the UK every year. F. That there are currently 127,000 EU students studying in UK universities, and 17% of academic staff in higher education are EU nationals. G. That one of the main sources of funding for UK universities and research centres is the EUÕs Horizon 2020 programme, accounting for over œ1 billion in grants and contracts. Conference further notes with concern the deterioration in the UKÕs financial position following the Brexit referendum which is increasing prices and will threaten investment in public services in the future, including: i) A 15% decline in the exchange rate which increases the cost of overseas purchases such as specialist medical equipment, an increase in inflation to 2.7%, and forecast GDP being 2.4% lower by 2021 than it would have been without Brexit. ii) The increase in government borrowing of £15bn a year because of Brexit, exposing public services to the full effects of any future financial shocks. iii) The TreasuryÕs long-term analysis which estimated the annual cost to the public finances of a soft Brexit at £20bn, a hard Brexit at œ36bn, and Ôno dealÕ at £45bn. Conference believes: a) That the free movement of people, expertise, and information is central to the effective functioning of public services. b) The vote to leave in 2016 was not a vote for further damage to essential public services. c) That the Conservative move towards hard Brexit, supported and enabled by Jeremy CorbynÕs Labour Party, will do irreparable damage to the UKÕs public sector. d) That the ConservativesÕ Immigration Skills Charge - expected to be doubled in the near future - is an unnecessary burden on hard-pressed public services and will endanger the ability of public bodies to hire much-needed workers. e) That immigration and immigrants make a significant net contribution to society, and the rhetoric surrounding Brexit and the rights of EU citizens continues to damage the UKÕs image as an open and tolerant society. Conference calls for: 1. The Government to unilaterally guarantee the rights of EU nationals in the UK, ending their ongoing uncertainty. 2. Continuing UK Membership of the Single Market, including the four freedoms of movement of goods, capital, services, and labour to be a priority during Brexit negotiations, in order to minimise the damage to British public services. 3. Continuing access for British institutions to European programmes for academia and research, including Horizon 2020 and Erasmus+. 4. The Government to publish an urgent assessment of staffing shortfalls in public services, including those in devolved administrations, as a result of its position in Brexit negotiations. Applicability: Federal. Mover: 7 minutes; summation of motion and movers and summation of any amendments: 4 minutes; all other speakers: 3 minutes. For eligibility and procedure for speaking in this debate, see page 5. In addition to speeches from the platform, voting members will be able to make concise (maximum one-minute) interventions from the floor during the debate on the motion. See page 6 for further information. The deadline for amendments to this motion - see page 8 - and for requests for separate votes - see page 5 - is 13.00, Monday 4 September. Those selected for debate will be printed in SaturdayÕs Conference Daily. 15.25 Speech Chair: James Holt. Aide: Geoff Payne (Vice Chair, Federal Conference Committee). Hall Aide: Cllr Paul Tilsley. F9 Baroness Brinton, President of the Liberal Democrats @salbrinton, #LDconf 15.45 Policy motion Chair: Zo‘ OÕConnell (Vice Chair, Federal Conference Committee). Aide: Victor Chamberlain. Hall Aide: Jennie Rigg. F10 Natural Environment Policy 16 members Mover: Richard Benwell Summation: Baroness Parminter Conference notes with concern: A. The poor state of the UKÕs natural environment - including biodiversity, air quality and water quality - and its repercussions for a sustainable economy and for human health and wellbeing. B. Growing environmental risks and pressures, including: regulatory risks associated with Brexit, deregulation and austerity; and direct risks from land-use change, climate change, invasive species and development. C. The inadequacy of investment in the natural environment to tackle the problem, both in the countryside and in towns and cities, resulting from a failure across government departments to incorporate environmental objectives in decision-making and spending. D. That the majority of the UKÕs environmental law and policy derives from the European Union, as well as many of the institutions that provide expertise and oversight. There would be serious environmental risks if we leave the European Union. Conference reaffirms the Liberal Democrat commitment to: i) The principles of good environmental governance as a benchmark for rational decision-making across government, including: sustainable development; the polluter pays principle; the precautionary principle; and the preventive principle. ii) A natural capital approach, focused on net gain in natural wealth for present and future generations, guiding ecologically rational investment and markets that deal efficiently with environmental externalities. iii) Access to a thriving natural environment for everyone, across town and countryside, regardless of social, economic or ethnic background, now and in the future. iv) A Nature Act, setting legally binding targets, including for: biodiversity, clean air and water. Conference calls on government to: 1. Set out clear, long-term, measurable environmental objectives that apply across all government departments and in relevant policy areas, including trade negotiations. These objectives should be established as part of a long-term environment plan, with a commitment to legislation in due course. 2. Make achievement of environmental objectives a guiding principle in major investment decisions, including: a) Incorporating green infrastructure in the remit of the National Infrastructure Commission; and strengthening planning rules for delivery of key green infrastructure assets, such as sustainable drainage, zero-carbon homes, and access to quality natural greenspace. b) Replacing the Common Agricultural Policy with a sustainable land management policy, which would target public and private money to reward farmers and land managers who invest in natural capital, as well as supporting the sustainable production of high quality food. 3. Improve public and Parliamentary reporting and accountability for protecting and enhancing our natural environment by: a) Annually reporting to both Houses of Parliament on the condition of the UKÕs natural environment alongside the Budget Statement. b) Seeking full cooperation with European Union environmental institutions, such as the European Environment Agency and the European Chemicals Agency. c) Developing new requirements for corporate natural capital valuation, accounting and public reporting. d) Creating new domestic institutions, including a new Office for Environmental Responsibility, to replace and improve on the access to and delivery of environmental justice currently provided by the European Commission and the European Court of Justice. Applicability: Federal. Mover: 7 minutes; summation of motion and movers and summation of any amendments: 4 minutes; all other speakers: 3 minutes. For eligibility and procedure for speaking in this debate, see page 5. In addition to speeches from the platform, voting members will be able to make concise (maximum one-minute) interventions from the floor during the debate on the motion. See page 6 for further information. The deadline for amendments to this motion - see page 8 - and for requests for separate votes - see page 5 - is 13.00, Monday 4 September. Those selected for debate will be printed in SaturdayÕs Conference Daily. 17.00 Party business Chair: Cllr Paul Tilsley. Aide: Jenni Lang. Hall Aide: Cara Jenkinson. F11 Federal Board Report Mover: Baroness Brinton (President of the Liberal Democrats; Chair, Federal Board) The deadline for questions to this report is 13.00, Monday 4 September. Questions selected will be detailed in SaturdayÕs Conference Daily. Questions on events occurring after the deadline may be submitted up until 16.00 on Sunday 17 September. See page 7 for further information. F12 Campaign for Gender Balance Report Mover: Candy Piercy (Chair, Campaign for Gender Balance) The deadline for questions to this report is 13.00, Monday 4 September. Questions selected will be detailed in SaturdayÕs Conference Daily. Questions on events occurring after the deadline may be submitted up until 16.00 on Sunday 17 September. See page 7 for further information. F13 Membership Subscription Federal Board Mover: Peter Dunphy (Chair, Federal Finance & Resources Committee) Summation: To be announced Conference notes that: a) The Federal Executive is proposing that there be no change to the Minimum, Concessionary, or Liberal Youth subscription rates. b) The Federal Executive is proposing that the recommended rate should be increased by £2 to £72. c) The proposed minimum rate, together with our concessionary rate of œ6 for those receiving or entitled to receive state benefits, maintains our position of offering access to the widest possible proportion of society. d) The Federal Board is proposing no change to the Federal Levy at 45%. Conference resolves that for the year 2018: 1. The recommended subscription rate shall be £72. 2. The minimum subscription rate shall be £12. 3. The concessionary subscription rate for those in receipt of, or entitled to, state benefits other than child benefit or state pension shall be £6. 4. Those paying their subscription through Liberal Youth shall pay a minimum of £6 or, where a new member joins, a special introductory rate of £1 to apply for the first 2 years of membership. 5. Nothing in this motion prevents a State Party from setting a recommended rate or rates of subscription by its internal procedures which is higher than that agreed by the Federal Conference, or from introducing additional concessionary rates. Conference further resolves that for the year 2018 the Federal Levy on membership subscriptions shall be 45%. Applicability: Federal. Mover: 5 minutes; all other speakers: 3 minutes. For eligibility and procedure for speaking in this debate, see page 5. The deadline for amendments to this motion - see page 8 - and for requests for separate votes - see page 5 - is 13.00, Monday 4 September. Those selected for debate will be printed in SaturdayÕs Conference Daily. 18.00 Close of session Sunday 17 September 09.00 Party business Chair: Victor Chamberlain. Aide: Liz Lynne. Hall Aide: Susan Juned. F14 Federal Appeals Panel Report Mover: Alan Masters (Chair, Federal Appeals Panel) The deadline for questions to this report is 13.00, Monday 4 September. Questions selected will be detailed in Conference Extra. Questions on events occurring after the deadline may be submitted up until 08.50 on Sunday 17 September. See page 7 for further information. 09.10 Party business Chair: Jenni Lang. Aide: Chris Maines. Hall Aide: James Holt. F15 Report of the Parliamentary Parties Movers: Rt Hon Alistair Carmichael MP (Chief Whip, Commons); Lord Newby (Leader, Lords); Catherine Bearder MEP (Europe). The deadline for questions to this report is 13.00, Monday 4th September; questions selected will be printed in Conference Extra. Questions on events occurring after the deadline may be submitted up until 18.00 on Saturday 16 September. See page 7 for further information. 10.00 Policy motion Chair: Sarah Boad. Aide: Alex Hegenbarth. Hall Aide: Mary Reid. F16 Armed Forces Personnel: Recruitment, Retention and Welfare 22 members Mover: Baroness Smith of Newnham Summation: Doug Harper Conference recognises: A. That retaining skilled and experienced personnel in the Armed Forces is vitally important to the security of the United Kingdom. B. The contribution made by Armed Forces personnel and their families, the impact of service life on Armed Forces families and the connection between this and retention of skilled, experienced personnel. C. The Liberal DemocratsÕ record of delivery in government, which led to the legal recognition of the Armed Forces Covenant. Conference notes with concern: i) Escalating shortfalls in recruitment and retention of Armed Forces personnel, which is insufficient to meet the minimum necessary level laid out in Security and Defence Review 2015. ii) Acute shortages in specialist areas, including engineers and analysts, and particularly in the Army and the Royal Air Force. iii) Chronic low morale, with 61% describing morale in the Service as ÔlowÕ in the Armed Forces Continuous Attitude Survey 2017. iv) Record levels of voluntary outflow of military personnel. Conference calls for measures to increase the recruitment and retention of military personnel including: a) The lifting of the 1% pay cap and better protection of the budget for personnel, community and welfare services, and estates to prevent it being used to plug big-ticket equipment shortfalls. b) An urgent review into the recruitment of technical specialists across the forces in order to introduce new initiatives to incentivise careers in the Armed Forces. c) Simplification and reform of the Combined Accommodation Assessment System (CAAS) to ensure accommodation charges are consistent, easier to understand and appeal, and assurance that the Future Accommodation Model (FAM) properly fits the needs of personnel and their families. d) A re-write of the accommodation maintenance contract to ensure decisions on preventative and additional works are made locally and the end-user experience is at its core; to include giving occupants of military accommodation the same legal rights to repair and maintenance as tenants in the private sector. e) Recognition of serving personnelÕs children in schools admissions process to monitor the impact of having to apply late and/or mid-year due to military postings and to improve and standardise local authority support to military families (eg. help when applying from outside the area, applying at short notice, accommodating children with additional needs). f) Continued funding for projects providing job training and career support to military spouses. g) Significant improvements in the implementation of the Armed Forces Covenant across the public and private sector. h) An improvement in the provision of healthcare and other services for Reserve forces personnel deploying on, or at high readiness for, military operations. Conference further calls for provision of better support for veterans including: 1. The inclusion of veterans on the Census. 2. A review of the Career Transition Partnership with a view to extending its remit to provide free further or higher education for anyone who have served for at least 12 years. 3. Better recognition and treatment of mental ill-health for veterans. Applicability: Federal. Mover: 7 minutes; summation of motion and movers and summation of any amendments: 4 minutes; all other speakers: 3 minutes. For eligibility and procedure for speaking in this debate, see page 5. The deadline for amendments to this motion is 13.00, Monday 4 September; see page 8. Amendments selected for debate will be printed in SaturdayÕs Conference Daily. The deadline for requests for separate votes is 09.00 Saturday 16 September; see page 5. 10.45 Consultative session Chair: Jeremy Hargreaves (Vice Chair, Federal Policy Committee). Aide: Zo‘ OÕConnell (Vice Chair, Federal Conference Committee). Hall Aide: Victor Chamberlain. F17 Europe Consultation In the referendum held on 23 June 2016, Britain voted narrowly (52-48) to leave the European Union. The Conservative government have made clear their commitment to implement this decision with a ÔhardÕ Brexit based on as clean a break as possible from the EU. The Labour party remain deeply divided, with commitments to soften the ConservativesÕ Brexit plans in some areas, but in the main Labour support the GovernmentÕs overall approach. The Liberal Democrats have long been an open and internationalist party, and supported BritainÕs membership of the EU since the inception of its predecessor organisations in the 1950s. We campaigned hard for Britain to remain. Following the referendum result, we have pointed out that while the referendum result narrowly set out a decision to leave the EU, it did not set out a position on the many questions about what the UKÕs future relationship with the EU should be. We argued that once the negotiations with the EU were complete, this agreement should be put to the electorate so that they can take the momentous decision on what our future relationship should be. The relevant section of our manifesto for the June 2017 General Election said: We passionately believe that BritainÕs relationship with its neighbours is stronger as part of the European Union...It has led directly to greater prosperity, increased trade, investment and jobs, better security, and a greener environment. Britain is better off in the EU. At the end of negotiations, there will be a decision on the deal when the terms of our future relationship with the EU have been negotiated, we will put that deal to a vote of the British people in a referendum, with the alternative option of staying in the EU on the ballot paper. We continue to believe that there is no deal as good for the UK outside the EU as the one it already has as a member. (see www.libdems.org.uk/manifesto for full text) Following the election result there are signs of some possible changes in BritainÕs planned approach to the EU exit negotiations, and there is a range of views about what the right approach is, and what position the Liberal Democrats should adopt. Given the wide variety of opinions about exactly what the right way is to implement our European principles, this session is an opportunity for conference attendees to contribute their views towards the formation of a clear party position on its approach to the Brexit negotiations, drawing support from as widely as possible across the party. Following short introductions from the panel, the session will be open to short contributions from as many party members in the hall as possible. The panel will include Tom Brake MP (Shadow Secretary of State for Brexit) and Sarah Ludford (Vice Chair, FPC and Lords Spokesperson on Brexit). SpeakerÕs cards do not need to be submitted, and members will be invited to speak from mobile microphones. The session will focus on two main areas: 1. What is the best way of the party achieving its aim of as close a relationship with the European Union as possible? Do you agree with the policy set out in the manifesto? 2. What principles should guide the UKÕs choices in the exit negotiations? If the governmentÕs objective of both securing a separation under Article 50 and a new trade deal with the EU by March 2019 proves unrealistic, what sort of transitional arrangements should we support? Comments can also be emailed to policy.consultations@libdems.org.uk - please put Europe Consultation in the header. 12.30 Speech Chair: Cara Jenkinson. Aide: Nicholas da Costa. Hall Aide: Robert Adamson. F18 Jo Swinson MP, Deputy Leader of the Liberal Democrats @joswinson, #LDconf 12.50 Lunch 14.10 Question and answer session Chair: Andrew Wiseman (Chair, Federal Conference Committee). Aide: Cara Jenkinson. Hall Aide: James Holt. F19 Question and Answer Session with Rt Hon Sir Vince Cable MP, Leader of the Liberal Democrats Members may put questions, on any topic, to the leader of the Liberal Democrats in a ÔTown HallÕ style event. Concise questions (maximum 25 words) may be submitted via the website until 13.00 on Monday 4 September or to the SpeakersÕ Table by 12.50 on Sunday 17 September. See page 7. 15.10 Speech Chair: Susan Juned. Aide: Robert Adamson. Hall Aide: Cllr Paul Tilsley. F20 Kirsty Williams AM, Cabinet Secretary for Education in Wales @Kirsty_Williams, #LDconf 15.30 Policy motion Chair: Chris Maines. Aide: Liz Lynne. Hall Aide: Nicholas da Costa. F21 Safe Building Standards for all Homes Federal Policy Committee Mover: Cllr Linda Wade Summation: Wera Hobhouse MP Conference expresses deep regret at the loss of life, injuries and trauma caused by the fire at Grenfell Tower in Kensington and stands with residents, friends, family members and the local community and organisations in grieving this tragedy. Conference believes that: A. The tragedy is the result of a long-term failure of successive governments over four decades to invest in social housing, in both the quality and number of homes. B. All residents in Britain, be they tenants of private landlords, tenants of public sector landlords, leaseholders or owner occupiers have the right to live in homes that are safe, warm, appropriate to their needs and set in well run, safe, green and clean neighbourhoods. C. The Government should ensure that the public inquiry into the immediate causes of the tragedy is properly resourced and concluded as swiftly as possible subject to sufficient time being given for a thorough examination of the issues. D. Liberal Democrat MPs, Peers and councillors should press for the conclusions of the public inquiry to be implemented rapidly and without equivocation on the publication of its findings or any interim findings. In the meantime, Conference calls for: 1. Residents in social or private rented homes to be comprehensively listened to when there are issues of concern over the quality of their housing, through clear channels of accountability and a means of redress when action is not taken. 2. Sufficient funding from central Government to ensure all homes are brought up to safe standards. 3. All blocks over four stories to have annual fire checks by the Fire Service with mandatory actions on private and public landlords, owners, freehold owners and managing agents stemming from such checks. 4. All blocks over ten stories to have a fire evacuation drill practices at a time of peak occupancy by the end of June 2018. 5. Compulsory electrical safety tests in all rented homes in both the social rented and private rented sectors. 6. A review of the emergency planning procedures for all councils to ensure there is clarity over how incidents will be dealt with and where responsibility lies. 7. A complete review of the content and implementation of building regulations, including provisions for: a) The use of sprinklers and cladding in tower blocks. b) The ability of local councils to check details of development prior to building and during building or renovation. c) The ability to update building regulations as new products, processes and techniques become available. d) The ability of building regulations to be used to enforce changes where necessary in buildings based on updated knowledge of new products, processes and techniques. Applicability: England. Mover: 7 minutes; summation of motion and movers and summation of any amendments: 4 minutes; all other speakers: 3 minutes. For eligibility and procedure for speaking in this debate, see page 5. In addition to speeches from the platform, voting members will be able to make concise (maximum one-minute) interventions from the floor during the debate on the motion. See page 6 for further information. The deadline for amendments to this motion is 13.00, Monday 4 September; see page 8. Amendments selected for debate will be printed in SaturdayÕs Conference Daily. The deadline for requests for separate votes is 09.00 Saturday 16 September; see page 5. 16.45 Policy motion Chair: Chris Maines. Aide: Liz Lynne. Hall Aide: Nicholas da Costa. F22 Centenary of the Balfour Declaration 11 members Mover: Rt Hon Tom Brake MP Summation: Jo Swinson MP Conference believes wholeheartedly in the universal liberal principles of human rights, democracy, international law, and the self-determination of peoples. Conference marks the centenary of the Balfour Declaration of 2nd November 1917 in which the British Government expressed its support for: ÒÉthe establishment in Palestine of a national home for the Jewish peopleÉ it being clearly understood that nothing shall be done which may prejudice the civil and religious rights of existing non-Jewish communities in Palestine, or the rights and political status enjoyed by Jews in any other country.Ó Pursuant to the achievement of the totality of the Balfour Declaration, Conference reaffirms its support for a two-state solution in which Israel and Palestine both exist with secure boundaries recognised in international law with normal relations (including diplomatic, security and trade relations) between them and with their neighbours. Conference calls for those States in the region which have not yet recognised the State of Israel to do so, as the Palestinians did in 1988. Conference condemns all threats and acts of violence and unlawful use of force such as war crimes and crimes against humanity, or extra-judicial killings, whoever the perpetrators or the victims may be, and believes that any such threats and acts will only make a just settlement more difficult to achieve. Conference regrets that as a result of Brexit Britain may lose representation on the Quartet and its influence on the Middle East peace process. Conference believes that progress towards a final settlement will depend on a wider regional settlement and the support of neighbouring states, and calls for further work to develop regional proposals which will carry the support of all sides. Conference notes that both Israel and Palestine have a right to territorial integrity under international law, and that any peace negotiation must allow the two states to negotiate land swaps to replace existing boundaries, namely the pre-1967 borders, with revised boundaries which the parties may agree between themselves on an armÕs-length basis. In this regard, Conference notes, in particular: 1. The unique position of the Holy City of Jerusalem and its various holy sites which are of religious significance to Jews, Christians and Muslims. 2. The principle that any territorial swaps should be made on a basis that territory ceded by one party to the other should be in exchange for territory of equivalent value. Conference believes that, in recognition of the principle of self-determination and the need for completion of the commitments made in the Balfour declaration, the State of Palestine should be recognised and that the time is now right for the British Government to do this; the expectation remains that free and fair elections in Palestinian territories under the control of the Palestinian Authority will take place, to be conducted by the Palestinian Authority and facilitated by the state of Israel. Applicability: Federal. Mover: 7 minutes; summation of motion and movers and summation of any amendments: 4 minutes; all other speakers: 3 minutes. For eligibility and procedure for speaking in this debate, see page 5. In addition to speeches from the platform, voting members will be able to make concise (maximum one-minute) interventions from the floor during the debate on the motion. See page 6 for further information. The deadline for amendments to this motion is 13.00, Monday 4 September; see page 8. Amendments selected for debate will be printed in SaturdayÕs Conference Daily. The deadline for requests for separate votes is 09.00 Saturday 16 September; see page 5. 18.00 Close of session Monday 18 September 09.00 Emergency motion or topical issue Chair: Duncan Brack (Vice Chair, Federal Policy Committee). Aide: James Holt. Hall Aide: Jennie Rigg. F23 Emergency Motion or Topical Issue This slot has been reserved for an emergency motion or motions, or discussion of a topical issue. The deadline for emergency motions and for suggestions for topical issues is 13.00, Monday 4 September. Motions selected for debate and/or proposed for the ballot will be printed in SaturdayÕs Conference Daily. See pages 7 & 8. Emergency motion timing - mover of motion: 5 minutes; all other speakers: 3 minutes. Topical issue timing - introducer of issue and spokespersonÕs response: 5 minutes; all other speakers: 3 minutes. For eligibility and procedure for speaking in this debate see page 5. 10.00 Policy motion Chair: Liz Lynne. Aide: Alex Hegenbarth. Hall Aide: Chris Maines. F24 Defeating Terrorism, Protecting Liberties Federal Policy Committee Mover: Rt Hon Sir Edward Davey MP Summation: To be announced Conference condemns the appalling terrorist attacks earlier this year in Manchester and London. Conference mourns the lives lost and stands in solidarity with all those caught up in and affected by the attacks. Conference applauds the work the police and security services do to keep us safe and the emergency services who run towards danger when outrages occur. Liberal Democrats believe that in the modern world, the security threats we face are complex, challenging and diverse; a strong and effective response to the threat of terrorism, which will both discourage others from wanting to harm us, and provide strong mechanisms against people who do, must be based on: i) Supporting local communities where there is a risk of radicalisation leading to terrorist acts, to take an effective lead in tackling violent extremism. ii) Supporting, expanding, and properly funding strong community policing which works at a local level with communities to tackle all types of crime, including violent extremism. iii) Ensuring the intelligence and security services have the powers necessary to investigate and bring to justice those who have committed or are likely to commit terrorist acts, and resource them sufficiently so they are able to monitor known suspects, particularly those who have returned from fighting abroad. iv) The central principle that indiscriminate, mass surveillance by the government without judicial oversight is contrary to our fundamental values, vulnerable to abuse, and there is no strong evidential basis that it is an effective means of intelligence gathering. v) A system that works across borders and with partners, recognising that terrorism and violent extremism does not respect national borders - this includes our work with our European partners via organisations such as Europol and using tools such as the European Arrest Warrant, which must not be weakened or undermined as part of the Brexit negotiations. Conference rejects the GovernmentÕs plans to: a) Regulate the internet via Ôblunt instrumentÕ techniques which are unlikely to make our children safer online, and will damage the UKÕs digital and creative industries, whilst also curtailing hard won civil liberties. b) Introduce internet connection records, effectively a mass surveillance tool to collect and store every web page visited by UK-based internet users for 12 months. c) Strengthen the ÕPreventÕ strategy which has clearly failed and alienated the very communities it seeks to engage. d) Continue to cut budgets for local police forces. e) Weaken or ban encryption which is vital to all our individual security online and our critical infrastructure. Any attempts to weaken encryption would leave us vulnerable to criminals and hostile state and non-state actors. f) Withhold intelligence from our European allies as a bargaining chip in their extreme Brexit negotiations. Conference calls on the Government to: 1. Scrap the Prevent Strategy, and replace it with a new programme called ÔEngageÕ - an inclusive community engagement strategy that would support communities to lead in developing their own approach to tackling the dangers of violent extremism. 2. Scrap legislation allowing for the collection of internet connection records instead focusing on the legitimate investigation and surveillance of suspects and those involved in criminal activity. 3. Invest in community policing understanding that it is local communities who are the best source of intelligence. 4. Introduce a Digital Bill of Rights to protect our rights online and enhance data protection in accordance with the EU General Data Protection Regulation. 5. Ensure that the Commission on Counter-Extremism announced in the QueenÕs Speech is independent, expert-led and brings together a multitude of voices. 6. Maintain BritainÕs membership of key EU crime-fighting tools such as Europol, European Arrest Warrant, SIS II and Prum. Applicability: Federal, except 3 (lines 60-61) which is England and Wales. Mover: 7 minutes; summation of motion and movers and summation of any amendments: 4 minutes; all other speakers: 3 minutes. For eligibility and procedure for speaking in this debate, see page 5. In addition to speeches from the platform, voting members will be able to make concise (maximum one-minute) interventions from the floor during the debate on the motion. See page 6 for further information. The deadline for amendments to this motion is 13.00, Monday 4 September; see page 8. Amendments selected for debate will be printed in SaturdayÕs Conference Daily. The deadline for requests for separate votes is 09.00 Sunday 17 September; see page 5. 11.00 Speech Chair: Andrew Wiseman (Chair, Federal Conference Committee). Aide: Zo‘ OÕConnell (Vice Chair, Federal Conference Committee). Hall Aide: Robert Adamson. F25 Tim Farron MP, Former Leader of the Liberal Democrats @timfarron, #LDconf 11.20 Lunch 14.10 Policy motion Chair: Andrew Wiseman (Chair, Federal Conference Committee) Aide: Jennie Rigg. Hall Aide: Zo‘ OÕConnell (Vice Chair, Federal Conference Committee) F26 Employment in the 21st Century Federal Policy Committee Mover: Baroness Kramer Summation: To be announced Conference notes: i) That in the modern economy, alternative forms of employment such as self-employment, zero-hours contracts and agency/temporary work have expanded significantly. ii) That some of this is associated with the growth of the Ôgig economyÕ, characterised by the prevalence of short-term contracts and freelance work as opposed to permanent jobs, but that traditional companies also make use of these arrangements. iii) That the autonomy and flexibility enabled by these arrangements is often valued by both businesses and individuals and can underpin innovative new business models. iv) That self-employment often acts as a springboard to more ambitious forms of entrepreneurship, and that according to surveys the self-employed and zero-hours contractors get as much if not more job satisfaction than employees. v) The ambiguity raised by some modern work, particularly in the gig economy, that properly fits neither the definition of employment or self-employment. vi) The legitimate concerns that these arrangements have raised around job insecurity, weakened employment rights and low pay. vii) That the recent introduction of tribunal fees poses a barrier to workers challenging their employers on their employment rights and/or status. viii) That the current tax and employment law framework incentivises so-called Ôbogus self-employmentÕ, where employers categorise staff as self-employed to avoid paying national insurance and granting workplace benefits. Conference recognises: a) The important work undertaken by the Taylor Review on modern employment practices, and broadly endorses its recommendations to increase the quantity of Ôgood workÕ. b) Existing Liberal Democrat manifesto commitments to address these issues, including: (for those on zero-hours contracts) introducing formal rights to request a fixed contract; bringing together employment enforcement agencies, and scrapping employment tribunal fees; strengthening worker participation in company decision-making. c) Action taken by the Liberal Democrats in government to ban exclusivity clauses in zero-hours contracts, enabling those on such contracts to seek additional work. Conference calls for: 1. The introduction of a new Ôdependent contractorÕ employment status in between employment and self-employment, as recommended by the Taylor Review, to better reflect the diversity of modern employment. 2. Updating the current legal definitions of ÔemploymentÕ and Ôself-employmentÕ to ensure that these too are adapted to the 21st century economy and modern technology. 3. Alongside updated legislation, new legal tests to determine the employment status of workers, based on factors such as the degree of employer control or thresholds (in terms of hours or income) above or below which employment status changes. 4. Increased public support for new forms of unionisation and worker cooperatives adapted to the transient and dispersed nature of non-traditional employment. 5. Greater enforcement by HMRC and employment tribunals of employment rights, and credible penalties for organisations that engage in abusive and deceptive employment practices. 6. Reversing the burden of proof in tribunal hearings on employment status, so that the employer must prove the individual is not eligible for the employment status/rights he or she is claiming, rather than the other way around, though with exemptions for businesses below a certain size. 7. The development of financial products - including pensions, mortgages and insurance - tailored to the needs of those in non-traditional forms of employment, in partnership with leading providers. 8. Reform of Universal Credit to be more supportive of the self-employed, by extending the ÔMinimum Income FloorÕ exemption period from 12 to 24 months to give businesses more time to establish themselves, and by making UC more sensitive to the fluctuating incomes of the self-employed. Conference calls on FPC to further develop these ideas in its planned policy paper on the 21st century economy. Applicability: Federal. Mover: 7 minutes; summation of motion and movers and summation of any amendments: 4 minutes; all other speakers: 3 minutes. For eligibility and procedure for speaking in this debate, see page 5. In addition to speeches from the platform, voting members will be able to make concise (maximum one-minute) interventions from the floor during the debate on the motion. See page 6 for further information. The deadline for amendments to this motion is 13.00, Monday 4 September; see page 8. Amendments selected for debate will be printed in SaturdayÕs Conference Daily. The deadline for requests for separate votes is 09.00 Sunday 17 September; see page 5. 15.10 Speech Chair: Liz Lynne. Aide: Chris Maine. Hall Aide: Victor Chamberlain. F27 Willie Rennie MSP, Leader of the Scottish Liberal Democrats @willie_rennie, #LDconf 15.30 Policy motion Chair: Alex Hegenbarth. Aide: Geoff Payne (Vice Chair, Federal Conference Committee). Hall Aide: James Gurling (Chair, Federal Campaigns & Elections Committee). F28 Encouraging Companies to be Responsible Corporate Citizens Federal Policy Committee Mover: Mike Tuffrey (Co-Chair, 21st Century Economy Working Group) Summation: Baroness Bowles Conference believes better corporate governance is the intangible infrastructure that business needs to grow. Conference further believes it is important to: i) Promote the success of major enterprises, encourage sustainability and enhance the prosperity of the nation as whole by encouraging a long-term approach to investment, innovation, training and productivity. ii) Give more people a real stake in the economy at a time when many feel left behind or at the mercy of forces beyond their control. iii) Restore public trust in the behaviour of large corporations and their senior management, following recent corporate scandals, and provide justice when there has been egregious failure in corporate behaviour. Conference affirms that reforming the UKÕs corporate governance framework can help achieve these outcomes, based on the three principles of Transparency, Accountability and Diversity. Conference notes existing Liberal Democrat policy to: a) Encourage a greater diversity of types of business, including mutuals, co-operatives, social enterprises, community-interest companies and more employee ownership. b) Increase transparency over major shareholdings in the biggest companies by lowering the declaration threshold to 1%. c) Require public and binding votes of board members on executive pay policies and specific awards and require the publication of data on people paid less than the real Living Wage and the ratio between top and median pay. Conference resolves to: 1. Encourage greater diversity on boards among all under-represented groups, notably including BAME communities and people with disabilities, building on the success in increasing the number of women by Liberal Democrats when in government, and extend reporting of diversity ratios in management and of pay gaps in large corporations. 2. Promote employee representation on boards, including through German style two-tier board structures, on unitary boards with the same legal duties and responsibilities as other directors, or via formal consultative mechanisms. 3. Require large corporations to establish stakeholder advisory panels, covering the interests of employees, customers, communities and the natural environment, with designated non-executive directors overseeing their input to the boardÕs deliberations under its ÔinclusiveÕ duties (Section 172 of the Companies Act) and with enhanced reporting of actions taken. 4. Rebalance the Companies Act 2006 to a genuine obligation on directors to consider the long-term interests of the company and of its employees, suppliers, customers, the community and the environment; broaden the scope to include the companyÕs extended value chain where it exercises control or significant influence; and include a duty of care for the common good. 5. Promote greater development of a new ÔinclusiveÕ model of company purpose, similar to benefit corporations in other countries, which permits placing the interests of wider stakeholders on a par with the interests of shareholders. 6. Allow shareholders to designate some or all or their holdings as a Ôstewardship stakeÕ, with enhanced voting power and the right to be consulted, in return for a minimum lock-in before the shares can be sold. 7. Encourage institutional and large shareholders to exercise their stewardship functions more broadly by voting at company AGMs, including on executive pay, with mandatory disclosure of voting records and rationale. 8. Support moves to give more control to individual savers over their pension fund investments whether in Self-Invested Personal Pensions or managed funds, with the right to vote retained by the beneficial owner not the nominee, and by encouraging asset owner initiatives such as the Association of Member Nominated TrusteesÕ Red Line Voting on environmental, social and corporate governance issues. 9. Consult on extending corporate governance provisions from publicly listed companies to other large companies held privately or by overseas parent companies, based on adherence to the underlying principles of good governance rather than a prescriptive set of requirements and disclosures. 10. Establish an explicit Ôpublic interestÕ test when considering approvals for takeovers of large or strategically significant companies by overseas-based owners. 11. Require verification of public declarations of the beneficial owners of companies registered in the United Kingdom, its overseas territories and crown dependencies, to ensure this defence against money laundering and tax abuse is robust, and enhance disclosure of the beneficial ownership of real estate including by overseas companies owning property in the UK. 12. Strengthen the law on criminal responsibility for harm arising from a blameworthy corporate failure, so companies pay an effective penalty, and the need to establish intent or the guilt of a senior executive is abolished. Conference calls on FPC to further develop these ideas in its planned policy paper on the 21st century economy. Applicability: Federal. Mover: 7 minutes; summation of motion and movers and summation of any amendments: 4 minutes; all other speakers: 3 minutes. For eligibility and procedure for speaking in this debate, see page 5. In addition to speeches from the platform, voting members will be able to make concise (maximum one-minute) interventions from the floor during the debate on the motion. See page 6 for further information. The deadline for amendments to this motion is 13.00, Monday 4 September; see page 8. Amendments selected for debate will be printed in SaturdayÕs Conference Daily. The deadline for requests for separate votes is 09.00 Sunday 17 September; see page 5. 16.30 Consultative session Chair: Sarah Olney. Aide: Cllr Paul Tilsley. Hall Aide: Andrew Wiseman (Chair, Federal Conference Committee). F29 Manifesto Feedback Consultation The partyÕs manifesto for this yearÕs general election, and its accompanying costing, are available at www.libdems.org.uk/manifesto. After the election was called, the Federal Policy Committee agreed the text of the manifesto at speed. Although it was of course based on existing party policy, inevitably the FPC was unable to conduct the same kind of consultation within the party that it would normally expect to carry out. This session is your chance to tell the FPC what you thought of the manifesto. Were its main messages the right ones, or should they have been different? Which particular policies worked well with the voters in your area, and which worked badly? What issues were often raised by voters which were not covered adequately, or at all, in the manifesto? Did we get our proposals for additional taxation and public spending, and the balance between them, right? Party members will be called from the floor to make concise comments (you do not need to submit speakerÕs cards). The session will be split into five sections: 1 Main messages and manifesto introduction and chapter 1 (Europe). 2 Manifesto chapters 2 (health), 3 (education) and 6 (families and communities). 3 Manifesto chapters 4 (economy) and 5 (environment). 4 Manifesto chapters 7 (rights, justice and equalities), 8 (international) and 9 (political and constitutional reform). 5 Manifesto costings. A panel of speakers will introduce the session and give brief responses to the points made. The panel will include Dick Newby (Chair, Manifesto Group); Duncan Brack (Vice Chair, FPC); James Gurling (Chair, Federal Campaigns and Elections Committee) and Sarah Ludford (Vice Chair, FPC). Comments can also be emailed to policy.consultations@libdems.org.uk - please put Manifesto Feedback in the header. 18.00 Close of session Tuesday 19 September 09.00 Policy motion Chair: Jennie Rigg. Aide: Victor Chamberlain. Hall Aide: Zo‘ OÕConnell (Vice Chair, Federal Conference Committee). F30 European Atomic Energy Community 12 members Mover: Catherine Bearder MEP Summation: Layla Moran MP Conference notes with concern: i) The UK GovernmentÕs commitment to withdraw from the European Atomic Energy Community (EURATOM) Treaty without a mandate to do so, and the impact this will have on scientific development, nuclear safety and the UKÕs electricity generation. ii) The GovernmentÕs ideological opposition to the role of the European Court of Justice as the court of arbitration as the reason for their withdrawal from EURATOM. iii) The negative effects that exit from EURATOM would have on the safety of UK nuclear industry and healthcare provision, including the management of radioactive waste, the movement of nuclear materials and the UKÕs influence in the continued progress of nuclear expertise globally. iv) The implications on the UKÕs ability to promote scientific innovation and industrial competitiveness, particularly in the development of future fusion power plants. v) The UKÕs high reliance on nuclear power for electricity generation and the impact of withdrawing from EURATOM on operational costs, the maintenance on reactors and movement of nuclear materials. Conference reaffirms: a) The Liberal Democrat commitment to maintaining a close relationship with our European partners in the areas of scientific research and nuclear regulation and development. b) The Liberal Democrat 2017 Manifesto pledge to remain within the EURATOM Treaty. c) The most effective way to ensure that the UKÕs position as a world leader in nuclear energy and security is to remain within the EURATOM Treaty. Conference calls for: 1. The UK Government to remain a full member of the EURATOM Treaty and to re-join the current renegotiations of the EURATOM Treaty. 2. Liberal Democrat Parliamentarians to press Labour Parliamentarians to join with them to uphold their manifesto commitment to remain a member of EURATOM and hold the Government to account on their plans to withdraw. Applicability: Federal. Mover: 7 minutes; summation of motion and movers and summation of any amendments: 4 minutes; all other speakers: 3 minutes. For eligibility and procedure for speaking in this debate, see page 5. The deadline for amendments to this motion is 13.00, Monday 4 September; see page 8. Amendments selected for debate will be printed in SaturdayÕs Conference Daily. The deadline for requests for separate votes is 09.00 Monday 18 September; see page 5. 09.40 Emergency motion or topical issue discussion Chair: Chris Maines. Aide: James Holt. Hall Aide: Geoff Payne (Vice Chair, Federal Conference Committee). F31 Emergency Motion or Topical Issue This slot has been reserved for an emergency motion or motions, or discussion of a topical issue. The deadline for emergency motions and for suggestions for topical issues is 13.00, Monday 4 September. Motions selected for debate and/or proposed for the ballot will be printed in SaturdayÕs Conference Daily. See pages 7 & 8. Mover: 7 minutes; summation of motion and movers and summation of any amendments: 4 minutes; all other speakers: 3 minutes. Topical issue timing - introducer of issue and spokespersonÕs response: 5 minutes; all other speakers: 3 minutes. For eligibility and procedure for speaking in this debate see page 5. 11.10 Policy motion Chair: Mary Reid. Aide: Cllr Paul Tilsley. Hall Aide: Jenni Lang. F32 Protecting Small Businesses 34 members Mover: Daisy Cooper Summation: Kelly-Marie Blundell Conference notes with concern that business rates increases which came into effect on April 2017 have: I. Disproportionately impacted some small businesses and have the potential to irreversibly damage the character of our high streets, in particular pubs that account for around 0.5% of total turnover but pay 2.8% of the total rates bill. II. Created an extra financial burden for local community organisations where the local authority does not offer discretionary relief. III. The potential to create huge tax inequality between small businesses (such as pubs) and giant multinationals (such as supermarkets). Conference further notes with concern that: A. The business rates consultation in 2016 lasted only four weeks rather than the three month consultation period recommended by the Cabinet Office. B. There was no regional impact assessment carried out which would have highlighted some key flaws from the start. C. The previous Conservative-only Government scrapped the Business Rates review commissioned by the Liberal Democrats in coalition in March 2015. Conference further notes with concern that the GovernmentÕs Discretionary Business Rates Relief Scheme of £3.6bn (announced in the Budget on 8 March 2017) to compensate businesses who will lose the most from the change: i) Was only announced following the threat of legal challenge from 13 business groups, including the Confederation of British Industry (CBI) and the Federation of Small Businesses (FSB). ii) Has simply been taken from other companies that were led to believe they had gained from the original changes. iii) Is only a temporary measure meaning that some businesses still have to pay an increase of more than £600 a year going forward. Conference believes that: a) Small businesses are a vital community asset and need support and fair treament in order to thrive. b) Business rates on the current basis are a broken system that are unfit for the 21st century. Conference calls for a fundamental review of the Business Rate system including consideration of Site Value Rating as set out in the 2017 General Election Manifesto. Conference further calls on the Government to adopt the following interim measures without delay pending a proper review: 1. A new ÔPub CapÕ limiting increases in rates bills to 12.5% on Public Houses, restaurants, hotels and cafes, as already exists in Scotland, to be extended to England. 2. Giving local authorities the ability to pilot site value rating (SVR). Applicability: England. Mover: 7 minutes; summation of motion and movers and summation of any amendments: 4 minutes; all other speakers: 3 minutes. For eligibility and procedure for speaking in this debate, see page 5. The deadline for amendments to this motion is 13.00, Monday 4 September; see page 8. Amendments selected for debate will be printed in SaturdayÕs Conference Daily. The deadline for requests for separate votes is 09.00 Monday 18 September; see page 5. 11.50 Speech Chair: Liz Lynne. Aide: Robert Adamson. Hall Aide: Victor Chamberlain. F33 Norman Lamb MP @normanlamb, #LDconf 12.10 Policy motion Chair: Nicholas da Costa. Aide: Geoff Payne (Vice Chair, Federal Policy Committee). Hall Aide: Chris Maines. F34 Gun and Knife Crime Southwark Mover: To be announced Summation: To be announced Conference notes with concern that: i) That knife crime is rising - the Office for National Statistics reported a 13-14% increase in gun and knife crime in 2016. ii) According to the Guardian project ÔBeyond the BladeÕ, 21 children and teenagers have been killed in knife attacks this year, with a disproportionate number concentrated in London. iii) The scale of knife attacks is largely hidden given the focus on deaths alone with less attention being paid to those who are injured as a result of knife crime. iv) Whilst the Metropolitan policeÕs ÔOperation SceptreÕ initiative to crack down on knife crime is welcome, it does not look at the reasons why young people carry knives. Conference believes that: a) The number of people, and particularly young people, who are now victims and at risk of knife and gun crime is of growing concern and must be responded to more urgently and effectively. b) Gun and knife crime must be a priority concern of central and local government, the police and communities nationwide. c) The roots of gun and knife crime are complex, with socio-economic factors as well as simple criminality playing a role, which means broader social problems must also be addressed. d) As with many types of crime, the most effective approaches involve working with a number of people and agencies and with many diverse communities. e) A return to overly-broad stop and search techniques risks damaging community relations and threatens the likliehood of successful intelligence-led interventions. Conference calls for 1. Individuals and groups to work more closely together with police, churches, mosques and other faith groups, particularly to engage with 16-25 year olds. 2. The promotion and proper funding of community led approaches, working with charities such as Redthread and GAV (Growing Against Violence). 3. The establishment of mentoring schemes and conflict prevention and mediation training for all students before they leave full-time education. 4. Regular amnesties to provide a safe time to turn over guns and knives. 5. Additional funding of local police forces to restore community policing which is the best source of intelligence that could be used to target stop and search more accurately. Applicability: England and Wales. Mover: 7 minutes; summation of motion and movers and summation of any amendments: 4 minutes; all other speakers: 3 minutes. For eligibility and procedure for speaking in this debate, see page 5. The deadline for amendments to this motion is 13.00, Monday 4 September; see page 8. Amendments selected for debate will be printed in SaturdayÕs Conference Daily. The deadline for requests for separate votes is 09.00 Monday 18 September; see page 5. 12.50 Lunch 14.10 Speech Chair: Andrew Wiseman (Chair, Federal Conference Committee). Aide: Geoff Payne (Vice Chair, Federal Conference Committee). Hall Aide: Zo‘ OÕConnell (Vice Chair, Federal Conference Committee). F35 Rt Hon Sir Vince Cable MP, Leader of the Liberal Democrats @vincecable, #LDconf 15.30 Close of conference The Federal Party Officers of the Federal Party Leader Vince Cable MP President Baroness Brinton Chair of FFRC Peter Dunphy Treasurer Lord German Vice President (England) Liz Leffman Vice President (Scotland) Sheila Thomson Vice President (Wales) Carole OÕToole Chief Executive Tim Gordon Federal Conference Committee The FCC is responsible for organising the two Federal conferences each year. This includes choosing the agenda from the policy and business motions submitted by conference representatives, local, regional and state parties, specified associated organisations and Federal committees, and taking decisions on venues, registration rates and other organisational matters. It works within a budget set by the FFRC. The FCC has 22 voting members: the Party President; the Chief Whip; three state party representatives; one representative from the FB, two from the FPC, one from the FCEC and one from the FPDC; and fifteen directly elected members. It elects its own chair, who must be one of the directly elected representatives Federal Policy Committee The FPC is responsible for researching and developing policy and overseeing the Federal PartyÕs policy-making process, including producing policy papers for debate at conference and drawing up (in consultation with the relevant parliamentary party) the Federal election manifestos for Westminster and European elections. The FPC has 29 voting members: The Party Leader and six other Parliamentarians; the Party President; two councillors; three state party representatives; one representative of the Federal Communications and Elections Committee; and fifteen members directly elected by conference representatives. It must be chaired by the Leader. Federal Board The FB is responsible for directing, co-ordinating and overseeing the implementation of the PartyÕs strategy and the work of the Federal Party. The Federal Board also has responsibility, at least once per Parliament, for preparing a document outlining the PartyÕs Strategy, for submission for debate and agreement by Conference. The FB has 35 voting members: the Party President (who chairs it); the Leader and three other Parliamentarians; the chairs of the three state parties; the chairs of each of the Federal Committees including a vice-chair of the Federal Policy Committee; a councillor; a Young Liberals representative; three state party representatives; and 15 directly elected members. Federal Finance and Resources Committee The FFRC is responsible for planning and administering the budget and finances of the Federal Party, overseeing its administration and ensuring its compliance with the Political Parties, Elections and Referendums Act 2000, as well as overseeing the PartyÕs risk management operations and its Risk Register. The FFRC has 14 voting members: the Registered Treasurer and Chair; the three Registered Treasurers of the state parties; five other members (elected by the FB); Party Treasurer; the Party President; one representative of the Parliamentary Office of the Liberal Democrats; the Chief Executive; and one member of Federal staff.