Forum 2029

As public dissatisfaction with the current government deepens, the need for a coherent, credible alternative has become increasingly urgent. To meet this moment, a new initiative, Forum 2029, will this summer launch a major series of events aimed at developing a clear progressive policy platform focused on living standards and democratic renewal.

Hosted by leading think tank the Autonomy Institute, Forum 2029 will bring together some of the UK’s leading politicians, activists, academics and campaigners from across the progressive spectrum. Together, they will chart the ideas and strategies needed for a transformative agenda fit for the challenges of the present - leading into the next general election.

Panel description

This opening event will explore why a clear, alternative progressive policy agenda is urgently needed — and why housing reform must be at its heart. The UK’s housing system is broken: high rents, unaffordable house prices, poor-quality rental stock, and deepening inequality have left many struggling, and left the country with a skewed system that can at times feel hard to escape. Our speakers will unpack the policies needed to address this crisis: from the viability of rent controls to tenant protections, expanded social housing, and rethinking land use and ownership.

Together, we’ll explore how bold housing reform can be a cornerstone of a wider progressive programme that delivers on living standards and fairness.

Confirmed speakers: Zack Polanski (Green Party), Beth Stratford (UCL), Neal Lawson (Compass), Danny Sriskandarajah (NEF), Sarah Nankivell (Common Wealth)