Conservative Party conference: ‘Saving for tomorrow: how do we build a sustainable and fairer society?’

Reform was delighted to host the Rt Hon Esther McVey MP, Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, to explore the topic ‘Saving for tomorrow: how do we build a sustainable and fairer society?’.

The challenge of building a fair society, where everyone shares in rising national prosperity, has risen up the political agenda. Savings and pensions will play an important role in delivering this vision. Savings provide people with opportunity and independence throughout life, flexibility to adjust to unforeseen events and financial security in retirement.

Creating a culture of saving has been a priority for government, seen through the introduction of automatic enrolment. However, some argue that the pressure of high housing costs, decline in defined benefit pension schemes and disappointing income growth, reduce the ability of young people to save. Helping more people to make the most of these initiatives will increase economic opportunity for all and help make public finances sustainable.

This event brought together senior policymakers, business leaders and academics to consider what policy levers are required to ensure that we are creating financial security for all. It was held under Chatham House Rule.

This event took place in Birmingham at the Conservative Party conference.

This event was kindly supported by Prudential: