An important platform to set out their vision

DAVID TAYLOR-GOOBY, a veteran of Labour Party conferences, gives his reflections on last week's event at Liverpool

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at Liverpool last week was largely well received

I WILL explain what actually happens at the Labour Party conference for those not familiar with it.

Delegates from various parts of the Labour movement attend, as well as some enthusiastic members. Many like to meet up with colleagues at the various social functions which take place.

The conference is not really a place where policy is discussed or made, but rather more a rally where the party leaders are able to address the membership and, nowadays through the media, the wider public.

Policy announcements are made, and for the leader it is an important platform to set out his or her vision and where he or she thinks the party or Government should be going. Don't expect any detailed discussion of policy in the main hall, though.