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Topic for January 2026 - Inequality (economic, social, regional)
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Inequality (economic, social and regional)
We have previously addressed taxation, levelling up, productivity, housing, health, education and aspects of welfare across our discussions, but we have never explicitly focused on inequality itself — or on the underlying distributional question.
This session aims to explore inequality directly, in the context of long-term wellbeing, structural causes, and the emerging AI society.
Agenda
What do we mean by inequality?
Is it a problem in the UK today? Where are inequalities widening, narrowing, or changing form? Is inequality inevitable? Is it desirable?Which inequalities most directly damage individual and national wellbeing?
To what extent is everyone treated equally – opportunity, rewards, race, gender, disability, democratic voice?
What are the root causes of different forms of inequality?
Regional economy and productivity; wealth and power; education and skills; access to opportunity and support; housing, transport and infrastructure; intergenerational factors.Do current economic, labour market and welfare models unintentionally entrench divides?
Is the Equalities Act helpful?What impact will AI have on inequality?
Concentration of wealth and power; uneven job disruption; access to opportunity; improved access to services, learning and assistance.
How do we ensure AI is deployed for the good of all?
What do we want to achieve?
What outcomes would constitute “success” in 10–20 years?
Is the focus redistribution, or contribution and capability building?
Do we need structural redesign rather than short-term fixes?
What transformative ideas do we have for achieving that success?
Across the areas identified, what might genuinely shift the dial?
Does the current Manifesto already offer relevant ideas, or are there gaps?
Are these ideas fair and implementable?
What shifted in our understanding? What haven’t we resolved?