LIBERAL DEMOCRATS spring conference agenda and directory brighton 8th–10th march 2013 AD LIB

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@AdLibMag /adlibmag libdems.org.uk/adlib Welcome to the Conference Agenda and Directory for the Liberal Democrat spring contents 2013 federal conference. Features: 3–6 If you have any questions whilst at conference please ask a conference steward or go to the A stronger economy in a fairer society Information Desk, located in the exhibition. by Nick Clegg MP 4 Calling it right for 25 years conference venue by Tim Farron MP 6

All conference sessions, fringe events and training Conference information: 7–16 will take place in the Hilton Brighton Metropole, located within the secure area and accessible only Plans of the Hilton Metropole 11 with a valid conference photo pass. Exhibition 17–22 Hilton Metropole Kings Road Fringe guide: 23–31 Brighton Friday fringe 24 BN1 2FU www.hilton.co.uk/brightonmet Saturday fringe 27 Conference training programme 30–31 There is a map of Brighton city centre on the back cover and plans of the Hilton Metropole on page Autumn 2013 conference timetable 31 11. Agenda: 32–45 Please note that the exhibition will open at 14.30 on Agenda index and timetable 32 Friday 8th March, and consultative sessions will start at 15.00. Friday 8th March 33 Saturday 9th March 34

For conference details Sunday 10th March 42 and registration online: Standing orders 46–53 Federal Party 53 www.libdems.org.uk/springconference Map of Brighton city centre back cover

You can navigate around this pdf document: click on a page number to go to that page; click on the page footer to return to the contents page.

The Conference Agenda and Directory and other conference documents, in PDF, plain text and clear print formats, are available online at www.libdems.org.uk/springconferencepapers

ISBN 978-1-907046-58-2

Published by The Conference Office, Liberal Democrats, 8–10 Great George Street, London SW1P 3AE. Design and layout by Mike Cooper, [email protected]. Printed by Sarum Colourview, 23–24 Henrietta Street Covent Garden London WC2E 8ND www.sarumcolourview.co.uk Front cover photograph by Alex Folkes / Fishnik Photography.

1 the federal conference committee is here to serve you!

Andrew Wiseman, Sal Brinton, Geoff Payne, Qassim Afzal, Dinti Batstone, Chair Vice Chair Vice Chair, FE rep FPC rep, English rep job-share

Louise Bloom, Kelly-Marie Blundell Gareth Epps Susan Gaszczak Veronica German, FPC rep Welsh rep

Sandra Gidley James Gurling, Evan Harris Jenni Lang, Liz Lynne FE rep Scottish rep

Chris Maines Justine McGuinness David Rendel Julie Smith, Paul Tilsley FPC rep, job-share

Ex officio: Members of the FCC will be available to give Alistair Carmichael MP, Chief Whip. advice about the conduct of conference at the Information Desk in the exhibition at the Elgan Morgan, Tim Farron MP, Party President. following times: Welsh rep Tim Gordon, Chief Executive (non-voting). Friday 8th March 17.00–18.00 Saturday 9th March 09.00–10.30 Saturday 9th March 14.00–16.00 Mike Ross, FCC members can also be contacted via Chief Steward, co-opted the Information Desk outside these hours.

2 spring conference agenda and directory 2013 apprenticeships, workplacementortraining. gets youngpeopleoff thedoleandintoworkthrough office, thankstoour£1billion Youth Contract,which Youth unemploymentislowernowthanwhenwetook YOUTH CONTRACT the leastwell-off pupils,raising standards foreveryone. Delivering anextra£2.5billionintoschoolstargetedat PUPIL PREMIUM and 1millionapprenticeship starts. a quarterandcreated 1millionnewprivatesectorjobs Fixing themessleftbyLabour;reduced thedeficitby 1MAPPRENTICESHIPS 1M JOBS, billion £1 1m 1m ACHIEVED

LIBERAL DEMOCRATS ARE WORKINGFORASTRONGERECONOMY IN AFAIRER SOCIETYSOTHAT EVERYONE CANGETONINLIFE IN GOVERNMENTSOFAR

starts apprenticeship

jobs private sector

MILLION billion HALF £2.5 opportunities WHAT WEHAVE A

pension, worthanextra£650everyyear. Secured thebiggestevercashriseinstate nobody pays any income tax on the first £9,440 they earn. nobody paysanyincometaxonthefirst£9,440theyearn. £600 taxcutfor24millionworkingpeoplebyensuring PENSION REFORM create thousandsmore green jobs. pounds ofprivateinvestmentinrenewable energyand Created aGreen InvestmentBanktounlockbillionsof GREEN JOBS FAIRER TAX billion billion £15 £3 £600 tax cut

£

busin govern from

from ment ess £650 ordinary workers for 24million more greenjobs 1000’s

3

features © Dave Radcliffe / Liberal Democrats Liberal / Radcliffe Dave © Every Liberal Liberal Every Democrat is here playing a part valuable in building a stronger economy in a fairer society Among many other policy Among many other have introduced achievements we our to help the pupil premium the pensions schools, implemented pensioners a fair triple lock to give of number a record deal, created to give young apprenticeships people a fair start in life, started the Bank to help build Investment Green we a sustainable economy and – as in here celebrated last time we were Brighton – we have ended child detention for immigration purposes. The stopping there. And we aren’t Review has showed that Mid Term the Coalition Government is committed to continuing to take further steps to deliver our priorities – we have further legislation coming implement Liberal to forward ranging Democrat policies in areas marriage to improving equal from provisions. childcare spring conference agenda and directory 2013 agenda and directory spring conference

4 by Nick Clegg by Nick a fairer society a fairer a stronger economy in in economy stronger a Of course that is only one of the flagship Liberal Democrat party policies this Coalition Government has implemented. Every Liberal Democrat member of this achievement should be proud and take every opportunity to ensure that it is as widely known as possible. This means people earning the minimum wage have seen their income tax bills halved under this government to what they compared And we have paid under Labour. every intention of making further cuts to income tax to fully deliver our manifesto commitment to increase to £10k. the income tax threshold the front This is a policy straight from page of our manifesto, to the back people. pockets of hard-working Our starting point must be that next Our starting point must be that next month 23 million people will see a further income tax cut. This will take the annual tax cut Liberal Democrats in Government to have delivered £600 a year. This weekend we gather together This weekend we gather together going to again to debate how we are do this and how we will communicate achieved what we have already country. the across Liberal Democrats across the across Liberal Democrats at working together UK are build a stronger every level to society, fairer economy in a to get on in enabling everyone life. features council by-electionsinthelastyear. many ofyouhavebeendoingin confound ourcriticsyetagain,as elections giveusareal opportunityto their localcommunities.These standing ontheirrecords ofserviceto councillors andcampaignerswillbe hard workingLiberalDemocrat elections across England.Iknowthat another round ofcruciallocal This Maywefaceournexttestin and true. British politics–haveremained strong consistently inthecentre ground of values –whichhaveanchored us challenges andhurdles butourliberal existed wehavefacedmany Over the25yearsourpartyhas a stronger economyinafairer society and thatiswhatweare delivering. Democrats arefor inGovernment fairer society. ThatiswhatLiberal building astronger economyina here isplayingavaluablepartin Brighton –everyLiberalDemocrat So thankyouforbeinghere in committed toachievinginthefuture. what weasLiberalDemocratsare alreadyGovernment andknowing what wehaveachievedin us togointothoseelectionsknowing This weekendisaspringboard for Minister Deputy Prime Democrats and of theLiberal Clegg MPisLeader The RtHonNick

continued 5

features features calling it right for 25 years by Tim Farron MP

This Brighton conference Government we’ve achieved even marks the 25th Anniversary of more. We’ve ended child detention the Liberal Democrats. While for asylum seekers, we’ve introduced we raise a glass to celebrate the biggest pension increase ever, we’ve cut the tax bill of 23 million of our quarter of a century it the lowest paid workers and we’ve would be too easy to spend frustrated Conservatives and Labour the time looking backwards plans to waste £100billion on Trident. – but it is essential we keep looking to the future. Our achievements over the past 25 years tell us that Liberal Democrats We should only look back to help us make the right calls before anyone see more clearly where we are going else, before there are any votes to be and why we are here. As Liberal won. We do this because we Democrats we have consistently approach politics in a way unlike the Tim Farron is MP for differentiated ourselves by standing other parties. We are not in the Westmorland and up for the people and issues that pockets of any vested interests. There Lonsdale and is matter. are no trade unions, no business President of the leaders and no media moguls telling Liberal Democrats The Liberal Democrats: us what we should think and say. This may leave us with less money, but it l defended the rights of the people means we have our freedom and our of Hong Kong as the country was integrity. transferred back to China;

l led by Paddy Ashdown first called In our first 25 years the Liberal for intervention to tackle the Democrats have stood out as the genocide in Kosovo that saved party fighting against unearned hundreds of thousands of lives; privilege and the abuse of power. We fight to protect our environment and l began banging the drum for action ensure peace and security through against climate change in order to co-operation. We fight for continued protect our environment long internationalism and the upholding of before it was fashionable; international law. Over a quarter of a l stood alone in opposition while the century our gut reaction has been Conservatives supported Labour proved right on the economy, on as they embarked upon their illegal climate change, on human rights, on war in Iraq; Iraq and on taxation.

l and Vince Cable warned of the My ambition is not just that we remain impending collapse that our true to our values over the next 25 reliance on an inflated illusionary years, but that we spend most of it in credit boom would lead to. power, putting our principles into practice. These stand as some of our achievements in 22 years of Welcome back to Brighton! opposition. During 3 years in

6 spring conference agenda and directory 2013 7

information conference information

General information about this year’s spring conference is listed below in alphabetical order. The conference auditorium is in the Oxford Suite on information the upper ground floor of the Hilton Metropole, see map of Brighton city centre on the back cover and plans of the Hilton Metropole on page 11. If you have any questions at conference, please ask a conference steward or go to the Information Desk located in the exhibition.

accommodation © Mike Cooper Accommodation can be booked via our local partner, Visit Brighton, on 01273 292626. l Sign language interpretation during all auditorium sessions; a number of seats are reserved for banking facilities representatives using this service. l Reserved seats at the front of the auditorium for An ATM is available in the Hilton Metropole Business those who would benefit from being closer to the Centre. Please note that a charge applies. stage due to a visual impairment. Mobility scooters cloakroom The Liberal Democrats have a limited number of Under no circumstances will any large bags or electric scooters available for use around the Hilton suitcases be allowed into the Hilton Metropole Metropole. They are free of charge and available on unless you are staying at the hotel. A cloakroom a first-come, first-served basis and will need to be is located off the main lobby where coats and small returned each evening. To request the use of an items may be left – limited space is available. electric scooter email [email protected] or contact the Information Desk at conference. conference daily distribution of literature Conference Daily will be published on Saturday 9th and Sunday 10th March. Please make sure you Distribution of literature is not allowed inside or collect your copy, as the information it contains will directly outside the Hilton Metropole. Excessive always be vital to understanding the day’s business. distribution of promotional literature is not in line with the party’s environmental policies. Any persons attempting to bring a large number of fliers into the disabled access conference venue may be prohibited from entering If you need assistance at the venue, please contact and a dilapidation charge will be levied against any a conference steward via the Information Desk or organisation or individual responsible for our disabled access steward Robert Littlehales: ‘fly-posting’. email: [email protected] telephone: 07712 667702 fcc helpdesk Members of the Federal Conference Committee Auditorium facilities (FCC) will be available to give advice at the l A wheelchair ramp at the front of the stage; the Information Desk at the following times. chair of the session will ensure wheelchair users Friday 8th March 17.00–18.00 are called in plenty of time to access the stage. Saturday 9th March 09.00–10.30 l An induction loop system, which can be linked to Saturday 9th March 14.00–16.00 hearing aids.

8 spring conference agenda and directory 2013 © Manny Begum Manny © conference information in theconference venue. There willbenoleftluggagefacilitiesavailable left luggage the ground floor. the hotel’s BusinessCentre, locatedoff thelobbyon Computer, faxandprintingfacilitiesare availablein code. Lobby only. thehotel’s Visit reception deskfora which canbeusedintheWaterhouse Barand Metropole alsooffers onehour’s access, free Wi-Fi you connecttothehotel’s network.TheHilton a charge,payableeitheratreception oronlineonce isavailablethroughout theHiltonMetropoleWi-Fi at access internet page 11)andisopenatthefollowingtimes: Metropole (seeplansoftheHiltonMetropole on the exhibition on the upper ground floor of the Hilton Conference Team canansweryourquestions,isin The InformationDesk,where membersofthe information desk Aiders toattendand/orrequest aparamedic. Information Desk.Thestewards willarrangeforFirst approach aconference steward orgotothe In theeventofneedingFirstAidassistance,please first aid telephone: 01273929410 email: [email protected] Sunday Saturday Friday 10th March 9th March 8th March 08.30–13.30 08.30–18.30 14.30–18.30 continued Manager. are reissued atthediscretion oftheRegistration replacement feeof£25applies andphotopasses on-site registration toarrange are-print. A If youhavelostyourconference photopass,visit conference topre-register via: strongly adviseallthosewishing toattend At busytimesyoumayexperiencequeuesandwe hotel unlessyouhavebeenaresident there. not beabletoleaveyourluggageattheconference store yourluggageforyouaftercheckout.You will On Sunday10thMarch yourhotelshouldbeableto cover) andopenatthefollowingtimes: (see mapofBrightoncitycentre ontheback SuiteoftheHiltonMetropolelocated intheViscount yet toregister orneedtoquery theirregistration; On-site registration isavailable forthosewhohave registration on-site Metropole. Pleasemakeuseofthecollectionbins. been provided bySITA UKthroughout theHilton Recycling facilitiesforpaper, plasticandcanshave recycling facilities be respectful ofothersusingtheroom. in MeetingRoom9theHiltonMetropole –please A multi-faithprayerandmeditationroom islocated prayer andmeditationroom detecting archways andphysicalsearch bysecurity process attheentrypoint.Thiswillincludemetal Everyone willbesubject to an‘airporttype’search building. without avalidpasswillbeescortedfrom the secure zone.Anyonefoundinthesecure area visibly atalltimeswithinthe passes mustbeworn withtheofficiallanyard.worn Conference photo only withavalid,visibleconference photopass Access totheHiltonMetropole Hotelispossible security andsafety www.libdems.org.uk/conference Saturday Friday 9th March 8th March 08.30–18.00 14.30–18.00 9

information conference information continued

staff of bags and packages. Only those attendees Parking staying overnight at the Hilton Metropole during Regency Square Car Park is located a short walk conference will be permitted to bring large bags or from the conference venue (see map of Brighton information suitcases into the secure zone. city centre on the back cover). Disabled bays are In order to ensure your process through the security available in this car park, but please note that Blue measures is as quick as possible please only bring Badge holders cannot park free of charge. A height essential items with you into the conference venue. restriction of 2m applies in this car park. Please allow time for security check queues during Alternatively, 1600 parking spaces are available at key times – particularly after lunch and ahead of Churchill Square 1 (also on the map). This car park popular events. is open 24 hours and can be contacted on 01273 These measures have been agreed and put into 749612. place to ensure, as fully as possible, the safety of everyone attending the conference, as well as the residents and employees surrounding the venue. voting status and voting /

Thank you for your patience and co-operation. non-voting passes You will only be able to register as a voting transport and travel representative if an officer of your local party has informed Membership Services that you have been The Hilton Metropole is 15 minutes walk from elected as a voting representative / substitute voting Brighton train station or a short taxi ride. representative. Exclusive discounts have been negotiated for In order to be issued a voting pass for this conference attendees from Brighton & Hove Taxis, conference this information must have been one of Brighton’s licensed taxi operators, as follows: received by 31st January 2013.

l 10% discount on all city-wide taxi journeys If you have received a non-voting pass and believe l £20 reduction for Heathrow Airport transfers you are a voting representative, the officer who l £5 discount for Gatwick Airport transfers submitted the original list of voting representatives will need to contact Membership Services. To claim your discount, please state at the time of booking your taxi that you are an attendee at this Membership Services conference. Your conference photo pass will need 8–10 Great George Street, London, SW1P 3AE to be shown to the driver on completion of your web: http://mdo.libdems.org.uk journey. email: [email protected] telephone: 020 7227 1335 Brighton & Hove Taxis: 01273 205205 © VisitBrighton

10 spring conference agenda and directory 2013 plans of the hilton metropole First floor Hall 8 C

Hall 4

Hall 8 A Hall 8 B information

Lift to Lift Stairs from upper conference floors ground floor

Exhibition Upper ground floor Auditorium (Cambridge & Durham) (Oxford) i

Lift to Lift Stairs to conference floors first floor

Stairs from ground floor

Ground floor Lift Lift to conference floors Gloucester

Wheelchair access between Balmoral Buckingham conference floors

i Information Desk Osborne

Toilets Stairs to Library Ambassador upper ground Seating floor (not to scale) Stairs & lift Sandringham to Meeting Lift Rooms 1–9 Waterhouse Waterhouse Bar & Terrace Reception Restaurant Main Smoking area entrance

11 Tuesday 19th February Tuesday Tuesday 5th March Tuesday 5th March Tuesday 13.00 13.00 13.00 signed by 10 voting representatives; OR representatives; signed by 10 voting parties, State Parties, submitted by local in England, Federal Specified Regional Parties or Federal Party Associated Organisations Committees. of the for amendments – a short explanation of the amendment; intended effect explanation of for emergency motions – a short its emergency nature. A4 sheet; be no longer than one side of an number; give a contact name and telephone include a copy of the original motion/ and amendment to which they relate; and specify the justification for the appeal information of which the new provide when it Committee was unaware Conference made its original decision. Emergency motions accepted for debate and/or for debate motions accepted Emergency Conference in Saturday’s will be detailed for ballot Daily. amendments and emergency Submission of motions emergency motions Amendments and must be: l l l l Submitters are encouraged to use our drafting Submitters are advisory service. Submitters should include: Appeals All appeals should: a) b) c) d) Appeals must be signed by the original drafting item. contact for the relevant Send to: to or post [email protected] (preferably) London SW1P 3AE. George Street, 8–10 Great [email protected] continued continued

spring conference agenda and directory 2013 agenda and directory spring conference

If there is a choice between more than two a choice between more is If there motions, a ballot will be held between 09.00 ballot 9th March; and 13.00 on Saturday papers and the ballot box will be available at in the auditorium. the Speakers’ Table If there is a choice between two motions, a is If there will be held in the auditorium at vote card 9th March. 11.00 on Saturday

Submission of: Amendments, appeals, emergency motions and topical issues Draft amendments and emergency motions Deadlines Drafting advice Appeals against non-acceptance of a motion Amendments, emergency motions and topical issues motions, amendments and appeals and amendments motions, l l Emergency motions may be selected by a ballot Emergency motions may be selected among voting representatives: The session at F17 is reserved for emergency The session at F17 is reserved motions or topical issues. Emergency motion debates are debates with a Emergency motion debates are like any vote, which make formal party policy to a development other policy motion, but refer motions. since the 9th January deadline for Emergency motions Emergency All motions on the agenda are open to All motions on the agenda are for debate amendment. Amendments accepted Daily. Conference will be detailed in Saturday’s Amendments Federal Conference makes policy for the Federal makes Federal Conference English Party has ‘passed the However, Party. to the Federal for policy-making up’ responsibility for some Party Welsh and the Party in all areas each motion is shown The applicability of areas. pages 32–45. in the agenda on Applicability of motions Applicability of Policy and party business motions are debated motions are party business Policy and repesentatives, upon by conference and voted policy. and set party conference information information conference

12 auditorium information information auditorium

information auditorium information Conference Daily. Questions willbedetailed inSaturday’s SW1P 3AE. or bypostto8–10Great GeorgeStreet, London preferably [email protected], Questions shouldbesenttothePolicyUnit, www.libdems.org.uk/springconferencepapers. March. Downloadaformfrom Federal Committeesis13.00onTuesday 5th The deadlineforquestionstothereports ofthe separate reports document. and theParliamentaryParties,includedin to anyofthereports ofthe FederalCommittees Any votingrepresentative cansubmitaquestion Reports March. auditorium, nolaterthan12.40onSaturday 9th and returnedtotheSpeakers’Table inthe Thursday 7thMarch; oron aformcollectedfrom [email protected] upuntil17.00on Questions maybesubmittedbyemailto auditorium. from theinterventionmicrophones inthe of thesession,willbeaskedtoputquestion on anyrelevant topic,and, ifselectedbythechair submit aconcisequestion(maximum25words) Any votingornon-votingrepresentative may (F14). There willbeaQ&Asessionwiththepartyleader Question andanswersessions and 17.30.Seepage33fordetails. Metropole onFriday8thMarch between15.00 Consultative sessionstakeplaceintheHilton account whendrawinguppolicypapers. appropriate theconclusionswillbetakeninto Working Group orotherpartybody, andwhere The sessionsare organisedbytherelevant Policy of aparticulartopic. other partymemberstoparticipateindiscussion opportunity forconference representatives and Consultative sessionsare alessformal Consultative sessions other conference sessions continued motions ortopicalissues. The sessionatF17isreserved foremergency sum upandsuggestany furtheractions. a memberoftheFederalPolicyCommitteewill invited torespond. Attheendofdiscussion, The relevant Parliamentaryspokespersonwillbe will havefiveminutestointroduce thediscussion. The submitterofanissuethathasbeenchosen detailed inSaturday’s Conference Daily. and FederalPolicyCommitteewillbe officers oftheFederalConference Committee The topicalissuetobediscussedischosenby not includeanexpression of opinion. should benomore thanten words, andshould explanatory background. The titleoftheissue submitter andmayincludeupto100words Emails shouldincludefullcontactdetailsofthe [email protected]. emergency motionsandamendmentsto by anyvotingrepresentative bythedeadlinefor Suggestions fortopicalissuesmaybesubmitted to formalpolicy-making. conference, where itmightbepremature tomove comment onapoliticalissueliveatthetimeof spokespeople anopportunitytodiscussand but are intendedtoallowrepresentatives and conference debates,willnot makepartypolicy, Topical issuediscussions,unlikeother Topical issues 17.00 onThursday7thMarch. email [email protected] on Saturday 9thMarch, andmayalsobesentby and returnedtotheSpeakers’Table before 12.40 should besubmittedonaformcollectedfrom Questions toreports oftheparliamentaryparties will beaskedduringthesession. Parliaments. Thechairwillselectwhichquestions Liberal DemocratactivitiesintheUKorEuropean questions (maximum25words) onanyaspectof conference representatives maysubmitconcise For thereports oftheParliamentaryParties(F16), until onehourbefore thestartofsession. cards attheSpeakers’Table intheauditoriumup March deadlinemaybesubmittedonspeaker’s Questions oneventsoccurringafterthe5th 13

information for information about to speak: for information Eligibility a speaker’s to speak and submitting eligibility to speak in conference see applying card, on page 15. debates for the time allowed Length of speeches: against each motion in the speeches is shown . Interventions are agenda on pages 32–45 each. limited to one minute rostrum lights on the speaker’s three are There side of the stage. The green and visible either on at the beginning of the light is switched light is switched on 60 speech. The amber the end of the allowed time (20 seconds before the end of an intervention). The seconds before is switched on when all the time is used light red up, and the speaker must stop immediately. Interventions: interventions give representatives (one-minute) the opportunity to make concise the floor during debates where speeches from . indicated in the agenda on pages 32–45 will be Speakers chosen to make an intervention on the called to the intervention microphones of the auditorium. floor ground decisions on the motion, on Voting: by simple are amendments and separate votes to vote, majority of those voting. In order must be seated on the ground representatives floor of the auditorium. can Separate votes: any voting representative for a separate vote – requests submit a request must be submitted in writing to the Speakers’ in the auditorium by the commencement of Table the session on the day before the first conference debate is scheduled; for debates scheduled for they must be the first day of conference, submitted to [email protected] by the deadline for emergency motions and amendments. When a separate vote is taken, the chair shall or to vote on whether to delete ask conference or section. the specified words retain Counted vote: the chair of the session may decide that a vote is so close that it needs to be voting representative any counted. Alternatively, the floor; if fifty other one from may request stand and show their voting representatives in support, a count will be taken. voting cards continued continued (if listed on the agenda) will be taken Interventions V V V V V V in turn speaks will speak

ensure balance ensure Proposers of any Proposers Summators of the motion as a whole

the amendments and turn – for and against spring conference agenda and directory 2013 agenda and directory spring conference Proposer of the motion of the motion Proposer amendments will speak separate votes (if any) in with the chair seeking to on all sides of the debate on all sides of the A vote will be taken on the

amendments speak in turnamendments speak The chair will take votes on Speakers will then be called Speakers will then The summator of the motion Suspension of standing orders (to lift one or (to lift one Suspension of standing orders of the rules governing more conference). Reference back (to stop debate and send the back (to stop debate and send Reference work); motion to a specified body for more Next business (to stop debate and move to the next item of business on the agenda); generally, generally, business motions: Policy and as follows: a motion will consider conference the structure of debates at conference at debates of structure the conference information information conference Procedural motions may be submitted by any motions may be submitted by Procedural in writing to the Speakers’ voting representative, or of 75 words with a statement of reasons Table made motions are less. Decisions on procedural by simple majority of those voting, except for the the which requires suspension of standing orders, of those voting. support of two-thirds l l l on motions: See standing orders Procedural pages 46–53 for details.

14 auditorium information information auditorium

information auditorium information Information Desk. auditorium, anauditoriumsteward orthe returned totheSpeakers’Table atthefront ofthe speaker’s card, thatshouldbecollected from and To speakinadebateyoumustcomplete debates. No otherpersonmaybecalledtospeakin card themore likelyyouwill betocalled. you makeitforthechair and aidetoread your in verysmallletters,or green ink…theeasier centimetre ofthecard; and don’t writeillegibly, or Don’t takethisasaninvitationtofilleverysquare 3 makesure it’s readable! of peoplewho’llmakethesamepoint. with relevant experienceandnotcallawholestring to balancethedebate–sotheycancallpeople These sectionsare neededforthechairandaide outline ofwhatyourspeechisgoingtobeabout. experience, partybackground, etc.)andforabrief for relevant background (professional orconsumer motion, etc.),there are twosectionsontheback, of thecard (name,localparty, fororagainstthe completely. Aswellastheinformationonfront The secondmajormistakeisnottofillinthecard 2 fillinyourcard completely sometimes theprevious day. meet wellinadvancetoplanthedebate– The chairandaideteamforthedebatealways you’re virtuallyguaranteeing youwon’t becalled. If youhandyourcard inlate, inapopulardebate 1 submityourcard wellin advance completing aspeaker’s card Three thingstoremember when l l l debates ormakeaninterventionatconference: Three categoriesofpeopleare entitledtospeakin what itdecidesreally matters. Democrat conference issovereign, and Unlike intheotherparties,Liberal its policyanddecidesfuture direction. conference: they’re where thepartysets Debates are theheartoffederal applying tospeakinconference debates speak bytheFederalConference Committee. Persons whohavebeengivenpermissionto full registration fee(notincludingdayvisitors). Non-voting representatives whohavepaidtheir who havepaidtheirfullregistration fee. by theirlocalpartiesorappointedex-officio, Voting representatives (orsubstitutes),elected continued chosen bytheChairrandom ballot. to asteward intheauditorium.Speakerswillbe form, thatshouldbecollected from andreturned interventions shouldcomplete anintervention Representatives wishingtospeakduring Interventions different from anyoneelse’s clear, concise,tothepoint,andprobably The rightwaytofillinaspeaker’s card: nor easilyreadable! too muchinformation,butmostlyneitherhelpful The wrong waytofillinaspeaker’s card (2): no usefulinformation The wrong waytofillinaspeaker’s card (1): 15

information Ministerial Q&A sessions

There will be a series of Ministerial Q&A sessions at spring conference. information

Conference representatives can come along and ask questions of our Ministers on the issues relating to their responsibilities and their departments – a fantastic opportunity to find out more about what our Ministers are up to.

These sessions are very popular and places are limited so please arrive early to avoid disappointment. Priority will be given to party members.

All sessions will take place in Hall 8A in the Hilton Metropole.

Saturday 9th March 14.30–15.30 International Affairs with Lynne Featherstone MP and Lord Wallace

Saturday 9th March 16.00–17.00 Green Jobs with Ed Davey MP and Rt Hon Dr Vince Cable MP

Sunday 10th March 10.00–11.00 Health and Social Care with Norman Lamb MP

Please visit our website and social media throughout conference for the most up-to-date news and information

www.libdems.org.uk facebook.com/libdems flickr.com/libdems twitter.com/libdemconf plus.google.com/+libdems youtube.com/libdem

16 autumnspring conference conference agenda directory and 2011 directory 2013 That's fairertax.org £600 backintotheirpocketsfrom April2013. putting any incometaxonthefirst£9,440ofearnings, is whywehaveensured that24millionpeoplewillnotpay a fairer societysothateveryonecangetoninlife.That Liberal Democratsare workingforastronger economyin WORKERS ORDINARY FOR 24M TAX CUT £600 /fairertax @fairertax 17

exhibition Information Desk Exhibition stand – for key to stand numbers see above 14.30–18.30 08.30–18.30 08.30–13.30

i 10 39 Toilets Seating 8th March 9th March 10th March 10th March

23 22 24 ➔ Exhibitor Association Liberal Democrat Lawyers Association Liberal Democrat Education Liberal Democrats Green ALTER Humanist & Secularist Liberal Democrats Liberal Democrat Disability Association Liberator Liberal Democrat Christian Forum Business Systems RISO / Midshire Prater Raines Foci2 Websites Bishops Printers ONEPOST Liberal Democrat Image 35 Friday Saturday Saturday Sunday 21 Stand 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 ActionAid 35 36 37 38 39 36 20

Catering 37 ➔ 19 Campaign Zone 38

10 12 15 16 17 18 13 ➔ 14

5 9 7 6 4 3 2 1 ➔ Catering

i 8

spring conference agenda and directory 2013 agenda and directory spring conference

Exhibitor Association Agents and Organisers and Scientists ALDES - Engineers Liberal Youth Group Liberal Democrat History EMLD LGBT+ Liberal Democrats Group) LDEG (Liberal Democrat European Glasgow City Marketing Bureau and Association of Liberal Democrat Councillors LGA Liberal Democrat Group Parliamentary Candidates Association Airport Operators Association Liberal Democrats for Electoral Reform Liberal Democrat Women Auditorium

18 exhibition plan exhibitors listed by stand number listed exhibitors Stand 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 CentreForum 10 12 13 14 15 the exhibition the and in the Cambridge is located The exhibition floor of the Hilton ground halls on the upper Durham on the Hilton Metropole – see plans of Metropole times: open at the following – and is page 11 Cambridge and Durham halls, Hilton Metropole, upper ground floor upper ground halls, Hilton Metropole, Cambridge and Durham

exhibition www.libdemsalter.org.uk Twitter: @LibDemsALTER distribution ofthewealthitcreates. both stimulatetheeconomyandcreate afairer interest group, focusingonradicalreform oftaxationto economic special ALTER, theparty’s ALTER Stand 19 www.aldes.org.uk member canjoin. Democrats. Anyinterested party technicians withintheLiberal network ofscientists,engineersand windfarms tohydrogen. We’re a Information ontechnicalissuesfrom ALDES –EngineersandScientists Stand 2 answered, andgetyourhands onanAgents’Manual! organisers. Comeandmeetus,getyourquestions Advice, supportandadvocacyforallelectionagents Association Organisers Agents and Stand 1 www.actionaid.org.uk the Americas,toeradicatepovertyandinjustice. excluded people,in45countriesacross Africa,Asiaand developmentagencyworkingwithpoorand international ActionAid isan ActionAid Stand 24 directory ofexhibitors www.aoa.org.uk UK. growth, tomeetthesocialandeconomicneedsof a vibrantairportsectorwhichcanmaintainsustainable UK airports.Ourvisionis The AOAisthevoiceof Association Airport Operators Stand 13

www.centreforum.org Britain. evidence-based policysolutionstothechallengesfacing is anindependent,liberalthinktankseekingtodevelop CentreForum CentreForum Stand 9 www.bishops.co.uk needs. a fullservicesolutionforallyourprint firms intheSouthofEngland,offering of thelargestcommercial printing Bishops PrintersofPortsmouthisone Bishops Printers Stand 37 www.libdemgroup.lga.gov.uk www.aldc.org Dems here. activists. JoinALDCandgetintouchwiththeLGALib and resources forallcouncillors,campaignersand ALDC andLGALibDemscanprovide advice,support Democrat Group LGA Liberal Councillors and Liberal Democrat Association of Stand 10 http://ethnic-minority.libdems.org/en within theparty. representation ofethnicminorities education, participationand A SAOestablishedtodevelopthe EMLD Stand 5 http://conventions.seeglasgow.com your accommodation. stand for all information about Glasgow including booking Democrats AutumnConference 2013.Pleasevisitour city fortheLiberal Glasgow isthehost Marketing Bureau Glasgow City Stand 8 19

exhibition Express Coffee 8.30am – 6.30pm in exhibition halls

Breakfast: Waterhouse Restaurant 7am – 11am Serving full English breakfast, pastries, fruit & freshly ground coffee Waterhouse Bar & Terrace from 8am GrabGrab && GoGo Costa Coffee & Twinings loose tea are served in luxurious surroundings, whilst Packed Lunches sumptuous delights are offered throughout the day and night Packed Lunches Lunch: Exhibition Halls 11.30am – 3pm availableavailable fromfrom 1212 noonnoon Dish of the day (Saturday only) £5.95, jacket potatoes, home made soup served along inin exhibitionexhibition hallshalls side, grab & go packed lunches £6.50, express coffees, soft drinks, fruit and exhibition confectionery incinc sandwich,Sandwich, fruit,fruit, crispscrisps Lunch: Waterhouse Restaurant 12pm – 6pm && bottlebottle ofof waterwater £6.50£6.50 Saturday Lunch buffet and Tea by the Sea, delicious three tier cream teas with delicate finger sandwiches, scones, mini pastries & Hilton macaroons Dinner: Waterhouse Restaurant 7pm – 9pm Delicious two course carvery with either a glass of wine or bottle of beer for £20 per person 2:4:1 Late snacks: Waterhouse Bar & Terrace Both simple or decadent snacks are available until late in the Waterhouse Bar & Bottled Beers & Wines Terrace, accompanied by the finest gins, whiskies & cocktails in town Cambridge bar Exhibition Halls Conference catering at The Hilton Brighton Metropole 4.30pm-6.30pm

20 spring conference agenda and directory 2013 directory of exhibitors continued

Stand 18 Stand 21 Green Liberal Democrats Liberal Democrat Disability Green Liberal Democrats are the Association (LDDA) Party’s largest Green member-based Raising awareness, understanding organisation, committed to keeping and support of people with Liberal Democrats as the UK’s disabilities, within and outside the Greenest Party of Government. Come and see us on Liberal Democrats. Championing disabled and able- Stand 18. bodied advocates’ opinions and the positive opportunities www.greenlibdems.org.uk available to the party and society. RECRUITING MEMBERS!! All supporters and carers welcome. Stand 20 disabilitylibdems.org.uk Humanist & Secularist Liberal Democrats Stand 17 HSLD has a successful Liberal Democrat Education record of shaping party Association policy; we welcome all LibDems who believe humanism Publications and information and secularism need a voice within the party. Come to available. Visit our stand to

our fringe meeting! exchange and share ideas exhibition www.hsld.org.uk concerning education issues with members, who will be on hand to provide information about the LDEA. Stand 7 LDEG (Liberal Stand 4 Democrat European Liberal Democrat History Group Group) The past illuminates the present. LDEG keeps members informed about what happens in Subscribe to the Journal of Liberal Europe, campaigning to maintain Liberal Democrats’ History. Buy our new book, Peace, strong pro-European tradition and organise meetings, Reform and Liberation: A History debates and trips. If you believe in Europe join us. of Liberal Politics in Britain 1687–2011. www.ldeg.org www.liberalhistory.org.uk

Stand 6 Stand 39 LGBT+ Liberal Democrats Liberal Democrat Image Actively campaigning on Equal Visit the Liberal Democrat Marriage and other issues, we are Image stand for all your the party’s body for Lesbian, Gay, campaign and election Bisexual and Trans equality. Learn materials. Including personalised products for your local about our policy and campaign work, and join us! areas campaigns. You can also order online at: www.delga.org.uk www.libdemimage.co.uk

Stand 23 Stand 16 Liberal Democrat Liberal Democrat Lawyers Christian Forum Association We support and encourage Christians in the party, act as Our membership is open to a bridge between the church and the party, and are a all interested in justice and law reform (not just lawyers). voice of liberal democracy among Christians. Our stand has briefing notes for our fringe meeting and www.ldcf.net other events. Chair: Graham Colley. www.LibDemLawyers.org.uk

21 directory of exhibitors continued

Stand 15 Stand 38 Liberal ONEPOST Democrat WLD ONEPOST is the UK’s leading Women provider of independent postal Sign up now advice and management – for the new using expert knowledge and women’s organisation - help tackle issues including specialist software to offer cost savings for direct mail. under-representation of women in public life, pay www.onepost.co.uk inequality, trafficking and violence against women. Stand 12 Stand 14 Parliamentary Candidates Liberal Democrats for Association exhibition Electoral Reform The PCA exists as the voice of We’re the new proactive group for Liberal Democrat candidates. electoral reformers. We aim to The PCA aims to attract, inject some strategic thinking to encourage and sustain a team of parliamentary avoid repeating the AV Referendum fiasco. Join us and candidates for Westminster, European, Scottish and help make electoral reform happen. Welsh elections. www.facebook.com/LibDemsForElectoralReform www.libdempca.org.uk

Stand 3 Stand 36 Liberal Youth Prater Raines Liberal Youth is the Foci2 Websites Student and Youth Learn more about the Foci2 campaign system. Fast, wing of the Liberal Democrats. Find out about our secure, reliable website with feeds, email, Facebook, campaigns and policy work! Twitter and petition campaigning in one place. The www.liberalyouth.org complete online tool for Liberal Democrat campaigners. www.praterraines.co.uk Stand 22 Liberator Stand 35 Liberator continues to report on the realities of coalition. Riso / Midshire Read the latest from the party’s leading thinkers. As ever Business Systems RB shines light on the dark corners of the party. Latest Riso printer www.liberator.org.uk options on display for production of party documentation in single, two and full colour at lowest possible print costs and fastest possible turnaround times. www.riso.co.uk recycling sponsor

SITA UK SITA UK is the leading recycling and resource management company. We deliver solutions to 12 million people and over 44,000 businesses across the UK, helping our customers to reduce the impact of their waste on the environment. Our purpose is to protect the environment by putting waste to good use. www.sita.co.uk

22 spring conference agenda and directory 2013 23

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r Orpington 1962 victory COME TO so to hear more THE RALLY! /adlibmag Refreshments provided Refreshments BSL signer provided Hearing loop provided By invitation only @AdLibMag X X X X AD LIB PICK UP YOUR PICK UP YOUR FREE COPY OF in the exhibition Available hall while stock lasts! key to fringe listings key to The Liberal Democrats and our predecessors have long championed this agenda. Whether The Liberal Democrats and our predecessors economic and legal legislating to recognise suffrage, it be in the campaign for women’s right to choose, and challenging continuing fighting for the rights, demanding equal pay, discrimination and barriers to equality. Liberal Democrats in government have society, economy in a fairer for a stronger Working leave parental for shared measures on this agenda, bringing forward progress made great ensuring and flexible working, challenging employers over pay gaps, expanding childcare, in the pension system and putting the rights of women at the heart of the equal treatment international development work. UK’s opportunity to get that women have an equal to do to ensure is much more But there a challenge for all of us. on in life and this remains The Rally this Spring falls on International Women’s Day. Day. The Rally this Spring falls on International Women’s the achievements the world to celebrate A day used across of women and the continuing need for action to achieve the world. meaningful gender equality in our society and across Members’ Rally 2:4:1 in the exhibition See page 20 for at the Cambridge Bar further catering offers from 4.30 pm – 6.30 pm from Shirley Williams Lynne Featherstone Jo Swinson Sarah Yong Nick Clegg

spring conference agenda and directory 2013 agenda and directory spring conference (Hilton Metropole, upper ground floor) upper ground (Hilton Metropole, Speakers Date Friday 8 March Time 18:30-19:30 Place Suite Oxford

on bottled beers and wine on bottled beers and All fringe events will be held in rooms that are that are will be held in rooms All fringe events wheelchair-accessible. Access to the Hilton Metropole is possible only is possible only to the Hilton Metropole Access photo pass conference with a valid, visible . worn the official lanyard with All fringe meetings will take place in the Hilton place in the Hilton meetings will take All fringe on the Hilton Metropole – see plans of Metropole . page 11

24 fringe guide fringe

fringe fringe friday 8th march friday early evening 18.30–19.30

Conference Rally International Women’s Day The rally this spring falls on International Women’s Day. Shirley Williams, Lynne Featherstone, Jo Swinson, Sarah Yong and Nick Clegg will join millions across the world to celebrate the achievements of women and highlight the continuing need for action to achieve meaningful gender equality in our society and across the world. Oxford Suite friday mid evening 20.15–21.30

LGA Liberal Democrat Group and ALDC Social Liberal Forum Reception and Council Group of the Year Awards How We Get Growing Again – the Road to 2015 2013 Speaker: The Rt Hon. Dr Vince Cable MP, Secretary of LGA Lib Dems and ALDC invite you to the Local State for Business, Innovation and Skills. Government Reception. The LGA Lib Dem Council Hall 4 Group of the Year Awards illuminate the stars in the local government galaxy. Expect big names and tearful Ethnic Minority Liberal Democrats acceptance speeches to municipal fanfare. Towards Race Equality – A Liberal Democrat Ambassador Approach fringe Has race equality fallen off the Government’s agenda? Liberal Democrat History Group / Lloyd George A panel chaired by EMLD Chair Issan Ghazni, with Society Baroness Meral Ece and others (tbc) debate the David Lloyd George: the legacy continuing gaps in education and employment and the One of the greatest Liberal prime ministers, David Lloyd future of the EHRC. George, was born 150 years ago. Come and discuss Hall 8 A his legacy, for the country and for Liberalism, with LG’s biographer Kenneth O. Morgan and David Howarth. Liberal Democrat Education Association Chair: Lady Celia Thomas. AGM / Fringe Meeting Buckingham After the short AGM, David Laws, Minister for Schools and the Cabinet Office, will address the meeting. Liberal Youth Hall 8 C Affordable housing for young people; getting a foot on the property ladder CentreForum Join us for a discussion on how we can improve Delivering Dilnot: paying for elderly care accessibility to the property ladder and help young Speakers: Rt Hon Paul Burstow MP; Baroness Jolly; people find affordable housing. With Lord Newby; Don and Sarah Pickup, President, Association of Directors of Foster MP; and Kevin McNamara, Liberal Youth. Social Services. Library Meeting Room 3 friday late evening 22.00–24.00

CentreForum and BVCA Conference Reception By invitation only. Supported by BVCA. Ambassador

25 Conference Daily

Make sure you pick up a copy of Supporting your campaigns Conference Daily from the Information Desk in the Hilton Metropole each morning. Learn top tips for your Conference Daily contains information, campaigning updates and changes, including from the experts amendments and emergency motions, which is vital to your understanding of the Meet campaign suppliers day’s business. with a record of working with the Lib Dems

Come see us in the Campaign Zone at stands 35–38 in the exhibition fringe Organised by the Department of Elections and Field

Find out more at Stand 8

Liberal Democrat Autumn Conference, SECC Glasgow

Glasgow is easy to get to: For more info on travel Glasgow looks forward 30 flights daily from London 20 direct trains daily from London to welcoming you on Train journey time from London 14-18 September 2013 just 4.5 hours Discounted rail travel on Virgin Trains

Book your accommodation at the Glasgow stand or at www.seeglasgow.com/libdems2013

26 spring conference agenda and directory 2013 fringe saturday 9th march saturday morning 08.15–08.45

Liberal Democrat Christian Forum Morning Praise Everyone is welcome to join us for prayer and worship to start the day. Library saturday lunchtime 13.00–14.00

Liberal Sustainability Network Lib Dem Friends of Turkey (LDFoT) and Ethnic The Green Book: New Directions for Liberals in Minority Liberal Democrats (EMLD) Government Where did the Feminists Go? Muslim Cultures and Launch of ‘The Green Book’, a major new book Post-Feminism. arguing for the party to put green issues at the heart Turkey’s leading woman writer and an award-winning of its platform, with Nick Clegg MP; Ed Davey MP; novelist Elif Shafak will be with us and to mark the Tom Burke; and Ben Page, Ipsos Mori. Chair: Lady international women’s day, she will talk to us on the Parminter. topic ‘Where did the Feminists Go? Muslim Cultures Buckingham and Post-Feminism’. Hall 8 A ALDES - Liberal Democrat Engineers and Scientists Liberal Reform

Science for International Development Inside the Coalition fringe How should science policy be designed to best support Join Olly Grender and a panel of political insiders who developing countries? Panellists: Dr Adrian Ely from will discuss how the coalition really works behind the the Science Policy Research Unit, Sussex, and Roger scenes. Williams MP, Lib Dem member of the Commons Hall 8 B Science Select Committee. Lynne Featherstone has been invited. Green Liberal Democrats Library Dash for Gas – What ‘Fracking’ Good is that for the Planet? ActionAid UK and Christian Aid The Green Liberal Democrats debate the role of Gas in Tackling tax dodging: Plenty of will, but what’s the the transition to a low-carbon energy mix, together with way? the extraction of gas from shales, with Tessa Munt MP After months of tax scandals, 2013 is a crucial year and Oliver Hayes from Friends of the Earth. to work towards fairer tax systems in developed and Hall 8 C developing countries. Will the Liberal Democrats, a party that made fairer tax a key part of their objectives, Catherine Bearder MEP champion these issues? The British Press and the EU Osborne Time for a proper debate on Britain’s membership of the EU. But how can we split facts from the Euromyths? CentreForum and Social Liberal Forum Mary Honeyball, Labour MEP for London; Petros What do we want from the welfare state? Fessoulas, Chair European Movement; Tim Aker, Get Achieving fairness and social justice in times of austerity. Britain Out; tbc, Hacked Off. Speakers: Gareth Epps, Co-Chair, Social Liberal Forum; Meeting Room 3 James Plunkett, Resolution Foundation; Baroness Tyler; and Professor Steve Webb, Minister of State, DWP. Chair: Professor Stephen Lee, CentreForum. Sandringham

27 fringe saturday 9th march continued

saturday early evening 18.15–19.30

CentreForum ALTER-Action for Land Taxation and Economic Between a rock and a hard place Reform How can the Liberal Democrats escape the electoral Caroline Lucas speaks on her Private Members’ Land cosh in 2015? Speakers: Lorely Burt MP; Edward Value Tax Bill Davey MP, Secretary of State for Energy and Climate Sponsored by LibDem MPs Adrian Sanders and Martin Change; and Professor Paul Whiteley, Essex University. Horwood. The bill requires the Secretary of State to Ambassador commission research into replacing the Council Tax and Non-domestic rates with a land tax. Other speakers tbc. ActionAid UK Hall 8 A Food not fuel – Liberal Democrats to avert a global food crisis? British United Indian Liberal Democrats (BUILD) Liberal Democrats should address EU biofuel policies How should UK engage with emergent Euro Zone and driving demand for land and crops from developing emerging BRICS economies? countries as the effects of climate change and the cost/ A debate exploring changes within key emerging shortage of food begin to take hold on communities economic conditions of the 21st century – focused on around the world. research areas of Finance and Development. Speakers Gloucester tbc. Hall 8 B fringe Liberal Democrat Lawyers Association Are the Coalition’s employment law plans bad news Green Liberal Democrats for workers? Three Floods and you’re out – relocating Communities A Discussion of the key changes to employment Prone to Flooding? law proposed by the coalition. Speakers include: Jo With major flooding becoming a more frequent issue, Swinson MP and Minister; Ian Murray MP, Labour; Norman Baker MP, Christine Drury, Chair of CPRE in the Dominic Raab MP, Conservative; and Tom Jones, South East, and Diane Smith, TCPA European Projects Employment law partner, Thompsons. Chair: Graham and Corporate Affairs Manager, discuss the options for Colley, LDLA. the way forward. Library Hall 8 C

Humanist & Secularist Liberal Democrats Liberal Youth Religious discrimination in schools: a half-term report What can the Liberal Democrats do to improve What impact does separate schooling for different faith transport for young people? groups have on communities? With guest speakers: ‘Join us for a discussion on youth transport, where Professor Ted Cantle, government adviser; author of we discuss issues surrounding cost, accessibility, and official Oldham Riots report; Jeremy Rodell of Richmond service provision’. With Lord Bradshaw; Norman Baker Inclusive Schools Campaign (RISC). MP; Dara Farrell, BYC; and Liberal Youth. Osborne Meeting Room 3

Glasgow September 2013 party training Don’t forget to book your Training sessions for party members accommodation for autumn are taking place at conference – conference in Glasgow on Saturday 9th March in the Hilton Metropole (secure area). Visit stand 8 in the exhibition For details see the conference training programme on pages 30–31. for more information

28 spring conference agenda and directory 2013 fringe saturday 9th march continued saturday mid evening 20.00–21.15

Liberal Democrats for Seekers of Sanctuary Association of Liberal Democrat Councillors / Ending Adult Detention – a Liberal Democrat aim? Liberal Democrats for Electoral Reform How about putting Lib Dem principles into action, Worst Past the Post: Why local government work to end adult detention without time limit and desperately needs electoral reform the practice of detaining people because of claiming Kicking off the campaign for electoral reform in English asylum? Speakers: Jerome Phelps, Detention Action; and Welsh local government. With Welsh Office Minister Frank from ‘Freed Voices’; Julian Huppert MP. Baroness Jenny Randerson; Eastleigh Council Leader Library Keith House; Willie Sullivan, ERS; Darren Hughes, ERS; Peter Facey, Unlock Democracy. Chair: Claire Hudson, Liberal Reform ALDC. Liberal Reform Reception Hall 8 C Liberal Reform exists to promote four-cornered freedom in the Liberal Democrats – personal, political, social Green Liberal Democrats and economic liberalism. Come and meet us and hear Green Deal and Energy Bills Campaigning, Key about what we are planning in the next few months. Speaker Ed Davey MP Osborne This event covers key messages and materials for effective Green Deal campaigning, an opportunity to hear how Lib Dem influence in government is making a International Office, Liberal Democrats real difference, with Ed Davey MP, Secretary of State for Liberalism and the Middle East Energy & Climate Change. The LibDem International Office in cooperation with Hall 8 A the Arab Partnership Fund hosts a delegation of liberal political activists from Tunisia and the Arab Alliance Women Liberal Democrats and Campaign for fringe of Freedom and Democracy. Guests will address the Gender Balance success and challenges of advancing liberalism through The Women’s Half-term Review the Middle East. Come along and share your thoughts with high profile Sandringham women of the party and prepare for campaigning towards 2015. Check www.womenlibdems.org.uk or email [email protected] for info update. Meeting Room 3 saturday late evening 22.00–02.00

glee club

Where? Balmoral & Buckingham, Hilton Metropole

When? Saturday 9th March, 22.00 to 02.00 Join us for the ultimate end-of-conference celebration!

Cash bar. Special bar prices: All bottle beers £3.75 Pick up your copy of the Glass of house wine £3.75 Liberator Songbook and Soft drink cans (coke/diet/sprite/fanta) £1.50 come and ‘raise the roof’!

29

14.30–15.45 Time and stress management Time and stress Simon Drage and Chris Butler (Elections and Field) for the Agents and Organisers Association. Osborne for the 2014 elections Preparing now Victoria Marsom and Dave McCobb for Elections and Field. Balmoral Making local and national messages work together Shaun Roberts (Political Communications) and Steve Jolly for Elections and Field. Buckingham Essential Skills: Targeting voters Essential Skills: Targeting parts of the electorate Different motivated to vote for different are at how This session looks reasons. giving each you are you make sure of voters the right messages group Cllr Gerald that appeal to them. Abi Bell for Jackson and Cllr Vernon ALDC. Sandringham Local Government What Policy: should be the local government reform to welfare response operates Changing the way welfare is a major challenge to local government. This session will discuss ideas, good practice and the across how council groups Stacy facing it. Cllr Terry country are and Cllr Keith House for ALDC. Ambassador

11.00–12.30 Political Communications) for Recruiting new members The Membership Department. Meeting Room 3 Hall 8 B worth a thousand words Pictures only) (Women An essential guide to learning how and pick first- to plan, produce for your selection class pictures campaign. Competencies covered – Strategic thinking and judgement, Communication skills. Candy the Campaign for Gender for Piercy Balance. Hall 8 C Using your personal story to get selected and elected Looking at various techniques to turn a your experiences into personal narrative to help you get your message to the voters. James Lillis ( Staying out of jail 1 Staying out of jail Garner Andrew Basic election law. for the Agents Marbrow and Richard and Organisers Association. Osborne to win! Finding the money Victoria and Dan Purchese Marsom (Elections and Field). Balmoral Activists’ Network: Squeezing Labour Winning has tactical Labour voters sometimes made the difference between winning and losing in This Conservative-facing areas. experienced workshop for more activists looks at how we can adapt our techniques to still do this in these days of coalition. Cllr Richard Cole for ALDC. Buckingham the Candidates’ Office.

09.15–10.45

spring conference agenda and directory 2013 agenda and directory spring conference

All training courses will take place on Saturday 9th March in the Hilton in March 9th place on Saturday courses will take All training members only. for party zone, and are the secure within Metropole, entry. be shown for photo pass must conference An appropriate conference training programme training conference Recruiting your members fayres outside of freshers’ Steve Jolly (Elections and Field) and for Liberal Youth. Wood Tom Meeting Room 3 Looking good on paper – winning selection literature only) (Women An essential guide to planning first-class selection and producing to help you win. Useful literature aiming to for women who are parliamentary stand as prospective candidates in this electoral cycle. – Strategic Competencies covered thinking and judgement, Leadership, Communication skills. Candy the Campaign for Gender for Piercy Balance. Hall 8 C Now you are a PPC… Now you are An informative and practical session on the best first steps for any newly Parliamentary selected Prospective Candidate. Alex Feakes for the Candidates Office. Hall 8 B Essential Skills: Getting out the vote away years of effort throwing Avoid you know how to by making sure get your voters out on polling day. Cllr Alan Boad and Cllr Chris White for ALDC. Buckingham Learning from the Obama Learning the from campaign A first-hand view of what worked Elections and Field. and what didn’t. Balmoral Introduction to agenting Introduction Chris Butler Simon Drage and for the Agents (Elections and Field) and Organisers Association. Osborne 30

fringe Meeting Room3 Neil FawcettforLiberalYouth. action days Getting youngpeopletoyour Hall 8C Diversity Unit. Candy Piercy andothersforthe Competencies covered –All. experts are here tohelp. just wanttoraiseyourprofile, our committee, becominganMPor a councillor, standingforaParty you are thinkingaboutbecoming career withintheParty. Whether and progressing yourpolitical individual expertadviceonplanning at, comealongandgetsome No matterwhatstageyouare sessions Political career development Hall 8B Candidates’ Office. and PatrickCallaghanforthe approval inthefuture. SalJarvis process, orgoingforward for finding outmore aboutthe approval candidate andwhoisinterested in who isnotcurrently anapproved The essentialsessionforanyone candidate an approved Parliamentary Introduction tobecoming conference trainingprogramme continued questions toreports emergency motions,topical issuesand Deadline foramendments tomotions, and emergencymotions) Drafting advicedeadline(amendments Motions deadline Drafting advicedeadline(motions) Saturday 14th–Wednesday 18thSeptember2013,Glasgow conference timetableautumn2013 14.30–15.45 continued

Balmoral Elections andField. Holland (DigitalCommunications)for and whatyouneedtodo.Jake How Connecthelpsyourcampaign Driving yourcampaignwithdata Osborne Agents andOrganisersAssociation. andRichardGarner Marbrow forthe Advanced electionlaw. Andrew Staying outofjail2 Ambassador ALDC. experienced activists.CarlMinnsfor workshop isaimedatmore and notjustforVoter ID?This how canweuseitmore effectively practice around thecountry and fromwhat canwelearn best makes thiseasierthanever, but Connect’s PhoneBank Virtual our mostsuccessfulcampaigns. increasingly importantpart of Phone bankshavebecomean most ofthephone Activists’ Network:Makingthe Sandringham Glover forALDC. get themvotingLibDem.Charles convert peopletopostalvotersand on electionresults. Find outhowto often haveadisproportionate say postalvoters On alowturnout postal vote Essential Skills:Winningthe 16.00–17.30 13.00 13.00 13.00 13.00 Monday Monday Wednesday Wednesday

Hall 8C Diversity Unit. – All.JemimaJefferson forthe strategy. Competenciescovered can addreal valuetoyourcampaign and whyanunderstandingofboth What InclusionandDiversitymean support awinningstrategy How DiversityandInclusioncan Hall 8B Office. and CarlQuilliamfortheCandidates’ confidently inpublic.CandyPiercy through thebasicsofhow tospeak skills. Thissessionwilltakeyou improve theirpublicspeaking Of benefitforanyonewishingto Public speaking Buckingham Field. MarsomforElectionsand Victoria Building yourvolunteerworkforce. and exploitinghiddentalent Expanding yourvolunteerteam Meeting Room3 The MembershipDepartment. Retaining yourmembers 2nd September2013 19th August2013 26th June2013 12th June2013 31

fringe agenda index and timetable

Friday 8th March Page

15.00–17.30 Consultative sessions: 33 Defence; Education and Skills; Europe; Political and Constitutional Reform; Tax 18.30–19.30 Conference rally: International Women’s Day

Evening fringe

Saturday 9th March

09.00–09.05 F1 Formal opening of conference by Tim Farron MP 34 09.05–09.30 F2 Report: Federal Conference Committee 34 F3 Report: Federal Policy Committee 34 09.30–10.15 F4 Constitutional amendment: Amendment to Article 10.2 34 10.15–11.00 F5 Policy motion: Every Child Taught by an Excellent Teacher 35 11.00–11.20 F6 Speech: Lord Ashdown, Chair of the General Election Campaign 37 11.20–12.10 F7 Consultative session: Election Manifesto 2015 37 12.20–12.40 F8 Speech: Steve Webb MP 37

13.00–14.00 Lunchtime fringe

14.20–14.50 F9 Report: Federal Executive 38 F10 Report: Federal Finance and Administration Committee 38 F11 Report: Diversity and Engagement Group 38 F12 Report: Campaign for Gender Balance 38 14.50–15.50 F13 Policy motion: Revitalising the Rural Economy 38 15.50–16.35 F14 Q&A session Rt Hon Nick Clegg MP 40 16.35–17.20 F15 Policy motion: Justice in Social Security Tribunals 40 17.20–18.00 F16 Reports: Parliamentary Parties 42

Evening fringe

Sunday 10th March

09.00–10.00 F17 Policy motion: Emergency Motion or Topical Issue 42 10.00–10.40 F18 Policy motion: Corporate Tax Avoidance 43 10.40–11.00 F19 Speech: Jo Swinson MP 44 11.00–11.45 F20 Policy motion: Creating a Strong Manufacturing Sector in a Stronger Economy 44 11.45–13.00 F21 Speech: Rt Hon Nick Clegg MP, Leader of the Liberal Democrats (approx.) and Deputy Prime Minister 45

32 spring conference agenda and directory 2013 friday 8thmarch Defence –17.30 15.00 Tax Europe of theHiltonMetropole onpage11). ground flooroftheHiltonMetropole (seeplans auditorium intheOxford Suiteontheupper consultative sessionsabove, takeplaceinthe All conference sessions,apartfrom the Hilton Metropole Hall 8A sessions willbetakenintoaccountbythegroups whendrawinguptheirfinalpolicypapers. Each sessionwillbeorganisedbytherelevant PolicyWorking Group. Theconclusions ofthe from partymembersandin somecasesoutsidespeakers. and decision-makingprocess. Eachsessionexaminesaparticulartopicandhearscontributions conference representatives andotherpartymemberstoparticipateintheparty’s policy-making Consultative sessionsprovide alessformalmechanismthanfull-scaleconference debatesfor Hilton Metropole Balmoral Hilton Metropole Hall 8C Political andConstitutionalReform Hilton Metropole Buckingham Hilton Metropole Hall 8B Education andSkills Consultative sessions Rapporteur: Chair: Rapporteur: Chair: Rapporteur: Chair: Rapporteur: Chair: Rapporteur: Chair: www.libdems.org.uk/springconferencepapers are availableonlineat: Consultation papers Bess Mayhew Dr JulieSmith Kevin Norton Jeremy Hargreaves Rachael Clarke Dinti Batstone Catherine Kingdom Ben Jones Adam Pritchard Baroness Brinton 33

friday saturday 9th march 09.00 Party business Chair: Tim Farron MP, President of the Liberal Democrats Aide: Sandra Gidley

F1 Formal Opening of the Federal Conference by Tim Farron MP, President of the Liberal Democrats

09.05 Party business Chair: Qassim Afzal Aide: Justine McGuinness

F2 Federal Conference Committee Report

Mover: Andrew Wiseman (Chair, Federal Conference Committee)

The deadline for questions to this report is 13.00, Tuesday 5th March, to the Policy Unit, Liberal Democrat HQ. See ‘reports’ on page 13 for further information. Questions selected will be detailed in Saturday’s Conference Daily. Questions on events occurring after the deadline may be submitted on speakers’s cards at the Information Desk or the Speakers’ Table up until 08.50 on Saturday 9th March.

F3 Federal Policy Committee Report

Mover: Duncan Hames MP (Chair, Federal Policy Committee)

The deadline for questions to this report is 13.00, Tuesday 5th March, to the Policy Unit, Liberal Democrat HQ. See ‘reports’ on page 13 for further information. Questions selected will be detailed in Saturday’s Conference Daily. Questions on events occurring after the deadline may be submitted on speakers’s cards at the Information Desk or the Speakers’ Table up until 08.50 on Saturday 9th March.

09.30 Constitutional amendment Chair: Geoff Payne (Vice Chair, Federal Conference Committee) Aide: Kelly-Marie Blundell

F4 Amendment to Article 10.2

Sixteen conference representatives Mover: Edward Joyce Summation: Richard Clare

1 In 10.2, after f) insert:

2 (g) a vote of no confidence in the Leader passed by a two-thirds majority at Federal Conference.

Applicability: Federal.

34 spring conference agenda and directory 2013 10.15 saturday 9thmarch

6 5 4 3 2 1 F5 Conference notes: Summation: Mover: Ten conference representatives Every ChildTaught byanExcellentTeacher Aide: Chair: The relevant textoftheexistingconstitutionstates: A constitutionalamendmentrequires atwo-thirds majoritytopass. printed inSaturday’s Conference Daily. appeals’ onpage12and‘separatevotes’14.Amendmentsselectedfordebatewillbe Tuesday 5thMarch; tothePolicyUnit,Liberal Democrat HQ.See‘motions,amendmentsand The deadlineforamendmentstothismotion,andrequests forseparatevotes,is13.00, in thisdebate,see‘applyingtospeakconference debates’onpage15. Mover ofmotion:7minutes;otherspeakers:4minutes.Foreligibilityandprocedure forspeaking II. I. Policy motion aspirations for theirpupils. huge contribution,andthe overwhelmingmajorityare skilledprofessionals who havehigh Teachers bodies andheadteachers,makea andschoolleaders,including governing teaching. The bestwayofimproving theeducationaloutcomes ofchildren isthrough excellent 10.2 An electionfortheLeadershallbecalledupon: (g) (f) (e) (d) (c) (b) (a) Baroness Brinton Lord Storey (Co-ChairofEducationandFamiliesParliamentaryPartyCommittee) Louise Bloom Gareth Epps (ii) (i) an election being called under any of paragraphs (a) through (f), provided that: without reached being election general preceding the of anniversary first the quorate generalmeeting;or a of decision the representingfollowing Organisations students) and/or youth or Organisation Associated Specified the purpose, this for Local (including Parties 75 least at by submitted requisition a of President ofall the by majority receipt the bya passed being Leader Members oftheParliamentaryPartyinHouseCommons; the in confidence no of vote a of intenttoresign uponthe electionofanewLeader; the receipt by the President of the resignation of the Leader or of a declaration temporary cessationbyreason ofadissolution); a than (other Commons of House the of Member a be to ceasing Leader the the deathorincapacityofLeader; the Leaderaskingforanelection; hs aarp () hl nt pl i te edr s mme o the of member a is Leader the Government. if apply not shall (g) paragraph this one yearbyatwo-thirds majority ofthosepresent andvoting; the Federal Executive may postpone such an election for no more than continued 35

saturday like Teach First, Future Leaders and Teaching Leaders, Teaching and Leaders Future First, Teach like continued Every child, whatever type of school excellent they and appropriately-qualified are teacher, or taught a dedicated in, professional deserves who to such a qualification. towards is working be taught by an It is essential to attract the best qualified graduates into the teaching profession, and that in which the profession and respect the prestige improving the best way to achieve this is by is held and giving qualified teachers more autonomy in the classroom to ensure teaching is choice. career an exciting and rewarding of practical in teaching should experience a mixture career That all those who wish to enter a development as ongoing professional training, as well high quality pre-entry and theoretical their career. throughout The growth of structured professional development programmes like First, Teach Teaching Leaders to in raise the the quality and impact Leaders of and the Future teaching workforce most challenging schools. The unprecedented amount of freedom granted to Head Coalition Teachers and Government, allowing teachers them to by base the their teaching practices around what works rather than central government diktat. All classroom teachers, including in academies and free schools, Teacher inTeacher Learning Status to or and Qualified SkillsQualified Status or to be be working required to have them. towards Recognition for the professionalism of accountability through backed up by strong in the classroom autonomy and freedom teachers and head teachers, through governingparents, bodies, local authorities and Ofsted. further organisations for support Continued most needed. they are that get the best graduates into the settings where A review into Continued Professional Development to ensure that every mentors, career teacher opportunity for sustained study, aspirations including their personal career can fulfil out of working sabbaticals and job exchanges a central information point and the further roll between schools. Clear guidance for schools on performance management, and for those teachers judged or observation to be given extra support review peer to be underperforming either through for one year in the hope that performance and with lesson preparation in the classroom and employment can continue. improves The role of outstanding classroom teachers, who dedicate their careers to their pupils, is too to their pupils, their careers who dedicate teachers, classroom of outstanding The role often underappreciated. those as well as underperform, do who schools and teachers of minority small The employed as teachers who lack the specific skills and qualifications necessary for that role, educational experience of children. risk damaging the including and underperforming schools, deal with all underperformance It is essential to schools. in academies and free underperformance teachers with a wide number of training institutions in training of teacher The important role specialities.

A. B. C. i) ii) a) b) c) d) e) III. IV. V. VI. Conference believes: Conference welcomes: Conference calls for: Conference spring conference agenda and directory 2013 agenda and directory spring conference

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saturday saturday 9thmarch 11.20 11.00 Speech 12.40 Lunch 12.20 Speech

57 56 55 54 53 52 51 F8 F7 F6 Speech bySteveWebb MP, Minister forPensions Aide: Chair: procedurefor and Foreligibility card. a speaker’s speaking, see‘applyingtospeakinconference debates’onpage15. must submit and session, the during floor Conference representatives may makeconcise(maximumone-minute)contributionsfrom the Manifesto Group andanopportunity forconference representatives toputtheirideas. This consultativesessionwillincludeanopeningpresentation byDavidLawsMPasChairofthe Election Manifesto2015 Rapporteur: Aide: Chair: Speech byLord Ashdown, ChairoftheGeneralElectionCampaign Aide: Chair: printed inSaturday’s Conference Daily. appeals’ onpage12and‘separatevotes’14.Amendmentsselectedfordebatewillbe Tuesday 5thMarch; tothePolicyUnit,Liberal Democrat HQ.See‘motions,amendmentsand The deadlineforamendmentstothismotion,andrequests forseparatevotes,is13.00, in thisdebate,see‘applyingtospeakconference debates’onpage15. Mover ofmotion:7minutes;otherspeakers:4minutes.Foreligibilityandprocedure forspeaking Applicability: Englandonly. Needs Educational Special including mentalandphysicaldisabilities,conference callsfor: with children for education provide teachers help to Furthermore, 2. 1. Consultative session disabilities. health servicessothattheycanidentifymentalissuesandphysicaland/orhidden School staff toreceive trainingandtoworkclosely withchildandadolescentmental teaching competenciesforchildren withphysicaland/orhiddendisabilities. to ensureThe Government initial teacher training providers emphasise the relevance of core Gareth Epps Kelly-Marie Blundell Duncan HamesMP(Chair, FederalPolicyCommittee) (Chair,Andrew Wiseman FederalConference Committee) Baroness Chair, Brinton(Vice FederalConference Committee) Jenni Lang Dr EvanHarris continued 37

saturday continued Justine McGuinness Dr Evan Harris Julie Pörksen Judith Bunting Chris Maines Committee) Conference Federal Payne (Vice Chair, Geoff of the Liberal Democrats) Tim (President MP Farron and Administration Committee) Federal Finance Peter Dunphy (Chair, Diversity Engagement Group) Brinton (Chair, Baroness Campaign for Gender Balance) (Chair, Ros Gordon Policy motion Party business Party Aide: Revitalising the Rural Economy representatives conference Twelve Mover: Summation: Chair: Report of the Federal Finance and Administration Committee Report of the Federal Finance Mover: Group Report of the Diversity and Engagement Mover: Report of the Campaign for Gender Balance Mover: Aide: Executive Report of the Federal Mover: to the Policy Unit, Liberal 5th March, is 13.00, Tuesday questions to this report The deadline for be Questions selected will on page 13 for further information. ‘reports’ Democrat HQ. See after the deadline may be Questions on events occurring Daily. Conference detailed in Saturday’s 9th March. on Saturday up until 12.40 cards on speaker’s Speakers’ Table submitted at the to the Policy Unit, Liberal 5th March, is 13.00, Tuesday report The deadline for questions to this selected will be on page 13 for further information. Questions Democrat HQ. See ‘reports’ occurring after the deadline may be Questions on events Daily. Conference detailed in Saturday’s 9th March. up until 12.40 on Saturday cards speaker’s on submitted at the Speakers’ Table to the Policy Unit, Liberal 5th March, is 13.00, Tuesday report The deadline for questions to this selected will be on page 13 for further information. Questions Democrat HQ. See ‘reports’ occurring after the deadline may be Questions on events Daily. Conference detailed in Saturday’s 9th March. up until 12.40 on Saturday cards speaker’s on submitted at the Speakers’ Table Unit, Liberal to the Policy 5th March, 13.00, Tuesday is The deadline for questions to this report for further information. Questions selected will be on page 13 Democrat HQ. See ‘reports’ may be Questions on events occurring after the deadline Daily. Conference detailed in Saturday’s 9th March. up until 12.40 on Saturday cards on speaker’s submitted at the Speakers’ Table Chair:

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saturday saturday 9thmarch 44 43 42 41 40 39 38 37 36 35 34 33 32 31 30 29 28 27 26 25 24 23 22 21 20 19 18 17 16 15 14 13 12 11 10 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1 including: Conference callsforfurther actiontosupportruralareas bylocalandcentralgovernment, Conference welcomesrecent actiononruralissuesacrossincluding: alllevelsofgovernment, Conference believesthatthemainproblems facingrural communitiesinclude: Conservative and Labour successive that acknowledges ofruralareas havenotprioritisedtheconcerns sufficiently.Governments and locations, rural in work or live people shouldnotsuffer from intrinsicordisproportionate lackofopportunitiesbecausethey Conference forthesustainablefuture isconcerned ofruralBritain.Conference believesthat and health education, to other services,whilecontributingtotheUK’s access economicgrowth. full have and employment, find homes, affordable in live can Conference ruralcommunitiesshouldbevibrantplaces,where considersthatmodern people 6. 5. 4. 3. 2. 1. f) e) d) c) b) a) v) iv) iii) ii) i)

access andensure easeofuse. to authorities, Investments inmaintaining ruralroads, and‘joined up’ruraltransportschemestoimprove local other by supported councils, support ruralshopsand businesses andcommunityenterprises. parish by and in investment Greater and multi-servicecentres, andpromotion ofaccesstofinance. through ruralentrepreneurs and businessstart-upcentres, ruralapprenticeship programmes A sustainable rural jobsfund, to assistlocalareas inthedevelopmentofviableemployment and government. and fairness market transparency, the jobs, environment and animal welfare, and the costs to farmers, consumers, rural profitability, and efficiency on effects account into take to with market, fair Future reforms of theCommon Agricultural Policyandtheirimplementation intheUKfully and transparent a ensuring farmers, proportionate regulation andbalancedmarketcontrols. British for trade fair Enabling reception. Investment inruralhighspeedbroadband coverageandmobilephonebroadband Parishes investingwindfarmrevenues forlong-termcommunitydevelopment. being of instead closed. services local other with joining libraries as Brown’s such ventures, by Multi-service 2013 January for planned was which Labour government. increase, duty fuel the of Scrapping The fuelrebate pilotscheme forislands. The Grocery AdjudicatorBill. Ending theCouncilTax discountonsecondhomes. large supermarkets. of number small a of dominance market the and sector agricultural the into entry to Barriers holiday-lets. and homes second of stock housing the on impact the and housing, affordable of lack A heating sources, suchasoil. due todistance,lackofviablepublictransportoptionsandreliance onmore expensive businesses, and households rural on impact disproportionately which prices energy Rising infrastructure,Lack ofinvestmentinmodern suchasBroadband. nmlyet n udrmlyet ad n atclr lc o tann ad job and training of lack a particular opportunities foryoungpeople. in and underemployment, and Unemployment continued 39

saturday continued Sandra Gidley James Gurling Suzanne Fletcher James Sandbach Andrew Wiseman (Chair, Federal Conference Committee) Federal Conference WisemanAndrew (Chair, Cllr Louise Bloom Extension Extension of the rural fuel rebate pilot scheme for island communities to other remote parts to the islands. cost characteristics that display similar of the UK run by housing homes, ideally be used for second that cannot housing rural Affordable parish councils. working with associations Effective rural-proofing of government policies, in the future. not disadvantaged ensuring and communities are education, services economies,rural employment, Policy motion Question and answer session Question and answer 7. 8. 9. Chair: Aide: Justice in Social Security Tribunals representatives conference Twelve Mover: Summation: available is justice where society a to Democrats Liberal of commitment the confirms Conference injustice; and to take part in able to redress people are where of circumstance; for all, regardless their lives. decisions which affect Aide: Question and Answer Session with Minister Democrats and Deputy Prime Rt Hon Nick Clegg MP, Leader of the Liberal the to put questions, on any topic, to the leader of representatives A chance for conference may submit concise representatives event. Conference style Liberal Democrats in a ‘Townhall’ and submitted to the Speakers’ Table collected from on a form questions (maximum 25 words) Questions may also be emailed to [email protected] 9th March. by 12.45 on Saturday and answer sessions’ on page 13. See ‘question until 17.00 on Thursday 7th March. Chair: The deadline for amendments to this motion, and for requests for separate votes, is 13.00, for separate this motion, and for requests The deadline for amendments to Democrat HQ. See ‘motions, amendments and to the Policy Unit, Liberal 5th March; Tuesday votes’ on page 14. Amendments selected for debate will be appeals’ on page 12 and ‘separate Daily. Conference printed in Saturday’s In addition to speeches from the platform, it will be possible for conference representatives to make representatives for conference the platform, it will be possible from In addition to speeches concise (maximum one-minute) interventions from the floor during the debate on the motion. See debates’ and ‘applying to speak in conference on page 14 of debates at conference’ ‘the structure on page 15. Applicability: England, except 2 and 3 (lines 32–37) and 7 (lines 45–46) which are Federal. and 7 (lines 45–46) which are except 2 and 3 (lines 32–37) Applicability: England, for speaking For eligibility and procedure 7 minutes; other speakers: 4 minutes. Mover of motion: on page 15. debates’ ‘applying to speak in conference in this debate, see

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16.35

15.50 saturday 9th march march 9th saturday 40

saturday saturday 9thmarch 39 38 37 36 35 34 33 32 31 30 29 28 27 27 26 25 24 23 22 21 20 19 18 17 16 15 14 13 12 11 10 9 8 7 6 5 4 Tuesday 5thMarch; tothePolicyUnit,Liberal Democrat HQ.See‘motions, amendmentsand The deadlineforamendments tothismotion,andforrequests forseparatevotes,is13.00, in thisdebate,see‘applying tospeakinconference debates’onpage15. Mover ofmotion:7minutes; otherspeakers:4minutes.Foreligibilityandprocedure forspeaking Applicability: Federal,exceptii)andiii)(lines12–16) 1(lines31–33)whichare EnglandandWales. Conference therefore recommends that: Conference believesthat: Conference furthernotes: believe donotconformtothelegislation. provided tohelpthemobtainredress fordecisionstakenaboutthemwhichtheyhavereason to locally assistance, expert to right the have individuals fairly, and works system benefits the that Conference notestheimportantrole ofappealrights atSocialSecurityTribunals inensuring 4. 3. 2. 1. b) a) v) iv) iii) ii) i) Social SecurityTribunals shouldstayfree atthepointofuseandnotincurfees forusers. decision making by the Department of Work and Pensions and its contractors and agencies. Ministers shouldreport onwhatpositivestepsare beingtakentoimprove thequalityof substantial changetothewelfare system. be takentoadditionallystrengthen thecapacityofadviceservicesespecially inperiodsof That theprovision ofwelfare rightsadvicebekeptunderreview, andthatmeasures should appropriate levelofadvice andsupport. proceedings involve points of lawor complex evidentialproblems, appellants can access an Appropriate adjustmentsshould bemadetolegalaidcriteriaensure thatwhere tribunal some assistance,especiallyinmore complexcases. Where appeals do go to tribunal, it is in the interests of justice that appellants should receive reducing thedemandon tribunalsystem. Every effort should be taken to ensure that welfare benefit decisions are ‘right first time’ thus access tosupportforchallengingdecisionswhere necessary. stressed theimportanceof keepingdecision-makingunderreview, about have andofclaimantshaving and people concerns disabled and vulnerable expressed on system benefit have the in changes reform of impact the welfare on motions Conference previous That having positiveoutcomesin89%ofcases. in preparing theirappeals, withappealscasesinlegalaidfundedSocialSecurity tend tobemore favourablewhere appellantshaveaccess toindependentspecialistsupport favour,claimants’ outcomes in tribunal found that being and appeals ESA of aroundhalf by example for evidenced as decision-makers benefit welfare by error of level high a is There tier SocialSecurityTribunals shouldreceive legalaidfunding,hasnotbeendelivered on. first in cases complex more that Act) Offenders of Punishment and Sentencing Aid, Legal That a concession secured by Liberal Democrat Parliamentarians (during the passage of the of purpose the for challenging decisionsinSocialSecurityTribunals.available be longer no will advice reforms, aid legal recent under That case lawwillneedtobeestablishedforcaseswhere legislationneedsclarification. many see potentially more appeals as all claimants will haveto be reassessed againstnewentitlementrules,and could 2013 April in Act Reform Welfare the of commencement The continued 41

saturday continued Susan Gaszczak David Rendel Cllr Paul Tilsley Susan Gaszczak MP (Chief Whip) and Alistair Carmichael of Parliamentary Party) Paul Burstow (Chair (Chief Whip) Newby Lord McNally (Leader) and Lord Parliamentary Party) and Fiona Hall MEP (Leader of the European MEP (Deputy Leader) Sarah Ludford Policy motion Close of session Party business Party Chair: Aide: Issue Motion or Topical Emergency important discussion of an or motions, or motion emergency an for reserved been has slot This emergency motions and for suggestions for topical political issue. The deadline for current to the Policy Unit, Liberal Democrat HQ. See ‘motions, 5th March, issues is 13.00, Tuesday page 14. Those selected for amendments and appeals’ on page 12 and ‘topical issues’ on Daily. Conference be printed in Saturday’s for the ballot will debate and/or proposed 3 minutes. Emergency motion timing – mover of motion: 5 minutes; all other speakers: 5 minutes; all other response: spokesperson’s of issue and issue timing – introducer Topical speakers: 3 minutes. to speak in conference see ‘applying debate, in this speaking for procedure eligibility and For debates’ on page 15. Chair: Aide: Parliamentary Parties Reports of the Commons: Lords: Europe: Each of the reports will be moved andbriefly, voted on at the end ofthe session, but to put questions on any aspect representatives conference of the session will be used to allow the bulk Parliaments to the panel. and European the Westminster of Liberal Democrat activities in on a form may submit concise questions (maximum 25 words) representatives Conference Questions 9th March. by 12.40 on Saturday and submitted to the Speakers’ Table collected from The Chair until 17.00 on Thursday 7th March. may also be emailed to [email protected] on page 13. asked during the session. See ‘reports’ will select which questions shall be appeals’ on page 12 and ‘separate votes’ on page 14. Amendments selected for debate will be for debate will selected on page 14. Amendments ‘separate votes’ on page 12 and appeals’ Daily. Conference Saturday’s printed in

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09.00 sunday 10th march sunday 10th 18.00

17.20 saturday 9th march march 9th saturday 42

saturday sunday 10th march continued 10.00 Policy motion Chair: Jenni Lang Aide: Liz Lynne

F18 Corporate Tax Avoidance

Ten conference representatives Mover: Stephen Williams MP (Co-Chair, Parliamentary Party Committee on the Treasury) Summation: Baroness Kramer (Co-Chair, Parliamentary Party Committee on the Treasury)

1 Conference believes that all corporations should pay their fair share of tax in countries where they 2 make a profit, ensuring that they do not artificially avoid tax to the detriment of the communities 3 in which they operate, both in the UK, globally and especially in developing countries where tax 4 revenue is a route out of aid dependence.

5 Conference notes the Coalition’s ongoing work to ensure a fair tax system at home and abroad, 6 specifically:

7 i) The introduction of a General Anti-Abuse Rule (GAAR) which outlaws wholly artificial and 8 aggressive tax avoidance by individuals and companies in the UK. 9 ii) The increase in resources for HMRC to tackle tax dodging. 10 iii) The commitment to focus the G8 Presidency in Lough Erne and work within the G20 11 to tackle multinational corporate tax avoidance, such as the practices reportedly used, 12 for example, by Starbucks, Facebook and Amazon, to avoid vast amounts of tax in the 13 countries in which they are profitable.

14 Conference calls on Liberal Democrat Ministers in the Coalition Government to:

15 1. Ensure that the recommendations of the International Development Select Committee 16 report Tax in Developing Countries are implemented so that developing countries are able to 17 use tax as a way out of aid dependency, specifically:

18 a) Introduce legislation requiring tax authorities to automatically share information relating 19 to UK citizens and corporations. 20 b) Enact legislation requiring each UK-based multinational corporation to report its 21 financial information on a country-by-country basis. 22 c) Assess new primary and secondary UK tax legislation against its likely impact on 23 poverty reduction and revenue-raising in developing countries. 24 d) Assist developing countries to enhance the expertise of their own tax assessment and 25 collection agencies.

26 2. Press for UK legislation to be amended to ensure that HMRC has greater powers over the 27 disclosure of tax avoidance schemes by UK-based companies.

28 3. Insist that multinationals operating in the UK disclose all their intra-group transactions, sunday 29 which may be used to shift taxable profit out of the UK; to do this HMRC needs expanded 30 information powers, which could be used in tax returns or disclosure regimes like Disclosure 31 of Tax Avoidance Schemes (DOTAS).

32 4. Consider lodging UK Corporation Tax returns for inspection at Companies House.

43 continued William Hobhouse Veronica German Veronica Sandra Gidley James Gurling Dinti Batstone Gordon Gordon Birtwistle MP (Co-Chair, Parliamentary Party Innovation and Skills) Committee on Business, The government funds made available through the Regional Growth Fund, which was set economy; this has led to the creation geographically sustainable up to help build a more and £14.5bn many in the manufacturing sector, of over 550,000 jobs, and/or safeguarding of private investment. The establishment of the Green Investment Bank, funded by projects. private, into green investment, both public and enabling more £3 billion of public money, The successful Liberal Democrat Campaign which saw the annual allowances to help businesses invest in plant and machinery, for Manufacturing proposal on capital £25,000 to £250,000 for a Statement from in the Autumn investment allowance increased Consider greater transparency of the details of out-of-court tax settlements agreed between agreed settlements tax out-of-court of details the of transparency greater Consider corporations. HMRC and Ensure HMRC has sufficient in-house expertise in law and forensic accountancy to tackle corporate tax avoidance. Policy motion

a) b) c) 5. 6. Summation: Conference welcomes the policy initiatives from Liberal Democrats in Government manufacturing to support and the positive contribution welcomes: conference In particular, Manufacturing’ group. made by the ‘Liberal Democrat Campaign for Mover: Aide: Speech by Jo Swinson Minster MP, for Employment Relations, Consumer and Postal Affairs Chair: Aide: Economy Manufacturing Sector in a Stronger a Strong Creating representatives conference Ten Chair: Applicability: Federal. for speaking For eligibility and procedure 7 minutes; other speakers: 4 minutes. Mover of motion: on page 15. debates’ ‘applying to speak in conference in this debate, see Unit, to the Policy 5th March; 13.00, Tuesday amendments to this motion, is The deadline for Amendments and appeals’ on page 12. HQ. See ‘motions, amendments Liberal Democrat Daily. Conference in Saturday’s selected for debate will be printed votes’ ‘separate See March. 9th Saturday 09.00, is votes separate for requests for deadline The on page 14.

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11.00

10.40 Speech sunday 10th march march 10th sunday 44

sunday sunday 10th march continued

13 two-year period. 14 d) Initiatives to boost exports (over half the UK’s exports is in manufacturing) including further 15 investment in UKTI with a particular focus on small and medium exporters, as well as a 16 scheme, announced in the Autumn Statement 2012, to provide up to £1.5bn of loans for 17 the purchase of UK exports. 18 e) The Advanced Manufacturing Supply Chain Initiative, with £125m available to improve the 19 global competitiveness of UK advanced manufacturing supply chains, particularly across 20 the automotive, aerospace and chemical sectors.

21 However, more needs to be done – to further develop the manufacturing sector, conference calls 22 for:

23 1. A further round of funding through the Regional Growth Fund – this funding will encourage 24 new investment in manufacturing, increase manufacturing capacity, and lead to further job 25 creation and preservation, while ensuring a continued commitment to a geographically 26 rebalanced economy. 27 2. Government, which is best placed to bring UK manufacturers together, to take the lead 28 in key manufacturing clusters, as identified in the Industrial Strategy – it should facilitate 29 collective R&D where there is a common industry agenda, and overcome the challenges in 30 the UK supply chain in partnership with manufacturers. 31 3. Government to continue its commitment to apprenticeships, and, additionally, to promote 32 science education in schools and science and engineering degrees at universities – these 33 are essential for building the skills sets necessary to support a strong manufacturing sector. 34 4. Government to make the UK a centre of excellence for manufacturing renewables-related 35 equipment, to set a long term energy policy which will unlock investment in renewables and 36 make the UK a manufacturing hub for these products.

Applicability: Federal, except 1 (lines 23–26) and 3 (lines 31–33) which are England only.

Mover of motion: 7 minutes; other speakers: 4 minutes. For eligibility and procedure for speaking in this debate, see ‘applying to speak in conference debates’ on page 15.

The deadline for amendments to this motion is 13.00, Tuesday 5th March; to the Policy Unit, Liberal Democrat HQ. See ‘motions, amendments and appeals’ on page 12. Amendments selected for debate will be printed in Saturday’s Conference Daily.

The deadline for requests for separate votes is 09.00, Saturday 9th March. See ‘separate votes’ on page 14.

11.45 Party business Chair: Tim Farron (President of the Liberal Democrats) Aide: Baroness Brinton (Vice Chair, Federal Conference Committee)

F21 Speech by the Rt Hon Nick Clegg MP, Leader of the Liberal Democrats and Deputy

Prime Minister sunday

13.00 Close of conference (approx.)

45 Move to next business should cease to that the conference A proposal move to consider an item of business and immediately the next item on the agenda. Reference back Reference a motion or amendment to a to refer A proposal named body of the Party for further consideration. Request for a count counted to the chair that a specific vote be A request rather than decided on the chair’s and recorded assessment of a show of voting cards. Separate vote to the chair of a debate that a part or A request parts of a motion or amendment should be voted on separately. Suspension of standing orders for a specific standing orders to relax A proposal stated purpose. item on which voting members may submit a speaker’s a speaker’s may submit voting members item on which card. order Point of of conduct the that debate a of chair the to suggestion A not has orders, standing the in down laid as debate, the been followed correctly. Policy motion an existing or reaffirm policy a new to adopt A proposal motions accompanying policy papers. one. This includes Policy amendment motion. Any proposal to change a policy A proposal importance, should be within should be of significant a original motion and must not be the scope of the negative. direct Policy paper and by the Federal Policy Committee A paper prepared terms of for debate under the submitted to conference Article 5.4 of the Federal Party constitution. motion Procedural should be that the conduct of a debate A proposal motions are: Procedural changed in a specific way. Special conference requisitioned An additional meeting of the conference by the Federal Executive, Federal Policy Committee, under representatives itself or 200 conference conference of Article 6.6 of the Federal constitution. the provisions amendment Standing order to change these standing orders. A proposal amendment Secondary standing order amendment. This An amendment to a standing order new material. must not introduce Any such such Any

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proposal should be significant, should be within the should be within the should be significant, proposal motion and must not be a direct scope of the original negative. Committee Committee means the orders, these standing Throughout qualified. unless otherwise Committee Conference Federal Constitutional amendment to change the constitution of the Party. A proposal Secondary constitutional amendment This must An amendment to a constitutional amendment. new material. not introduce Consultative session of policy or strategy selected areas A meeting where depth than is possible in full in greater considered are debates. Day visitor day visitor Someone who has paid the appropriate vote in full not entitled to speak or fee. Day visitors are sessions of conference. Elected representative an SAO to represent A person elected by a local party or substitutes This term does not include them at conference. at a an elected representative appointed to replace elected It does include particular meeting of conference. for a particular who have not registered representatives meeting of conference. motion Emergency development recent to a specific relates which A proposal after the deadline for submission of which occurred brief. motions must be motions. Emergency amendment Emergency to a specific An amendment to a motion which relates after the deadline for the submission event which occurred of amendments. It must be brief and uncontentious. Full session debates, during which agenda of the conference Any part business, of discussion or discussions issue topical takes place. This specifically including formal reports, or Leader the by those as such speeches formal excludes Party Officers. Non-voting member registration A party member who has paid the appropriate an elected representative, not are because they fee, but, member non-voting A conference. at vote to entitled not is for any card to submit a speaker’s entitled is, however,

Business motion Business a particular of the Party in the affairs to conduct A proposal have been way affairs an opinion on the express way or to conducted. Business amendment motion. business a change to proposal A standing orders for federal conference federal for orders standing 46

standing orders standing orders continued

Topical issue discussion for a particular meeting of conference. It does not A discussion on a policy issue of significant and topical include conference representatives who have not paid relevance, conducted without a vote. any registration fee that may be in force nor does it include day visitors or observers who are not conference Voting member representatives. A person who is entitled to vote at conference. This term includes substitutes replacing conference representatives standing orders

1. The conference agenda local parties, Specified Associated Organisations and 10 conference representatives. Business motions, 1.1 What is on the agenda standing order amendments and secondary standing The agenda for each meeting of conference, other than a order amendments may also be submitted by the special conference, shall include time for: Federal Conference Committee. a) One or more consultative sessions; save that the c) Motions accompanying policy papers may only be Committee may decide not to hold any consultative submitted by the Federal Policy Committee. sessions at a spring conference. d) Policy motions (including amendments, emergency b) A business session or sessions for the consideration policy motions and amendments) may be submitted of reports from the Parliamentary Party in the House by the Federal Policy Committee, state parties, regional of Commons, the Parliamentary Party in the House parties in England, local parties, Specified Associated of Lords, the Parliamentary Party in the European Organisations and 10 conference representatives. Parliament, the Federal Executive, the Federal Finance e) Proposals for topical issue discussions may be and Administration Committee, the Federal Policy submitted by any voting member. Committee and the Federal Conference Committee together with, when appropriate, reports from any other 1.4 How motions and amendments are submitted body the Committee considers appropriate, accounts, All motions and amendments must be submitted the annual report, business motions, constitutional to the Committee. They must be typed clearly and amendments and standing order amendments. accompanied by the name, address and telephone c) Policy motions (including motions accompanying number(s) of a person authorised to agree to their policy papers). being composited or redrafted. Motions submitted by d) Emergency motions. conference representatives must be accompanied by all e) Topical issue discussions. their signatures, names and addresses. f) Any other business which the Committee thinks appropriate. 1.5 The deadlines by which motions, amendments, The time to be allocated to each type of business and the reports and questions to reports must be order of that business shall be decided by the Committee submitted provided that conference may decide not to take any The Committee shall specify: particular item on the agenda. a) The closing date for the receipt of policy motions (including motions accompanying policy papers), 1.2 Conference or council of state parties business motions, constitutional amendments and In addition, time before or after any meeting may be amendments to standing orders, which shall be at agreed with the relevant state party for a meeting of the least eight weeks before the start of conference. conference or council of that party. b) The closing date for the receipt of amendments to motions published in the agenda and emergency 1.3 Right to submit agenda items motions, which shall be at least two days before the a) Reports to conference may be submitted only by the start of conference. bodies listed in paragraph 1.1(b). c) The closing date for the submission of written reports b) Business motions (including amendments and from the bodies listed in paragraph 1.1(b), which emergency business motions and amendments), will be set so as to enable their distribution with the constitutional amendments and secondary constitutional agenda. Any supplementary report submitted later amendments, standing order amendments and than this deadline may only be tabled at conference secondary standing order amendments may be with the permission of the Committee. submitted by the Federal Executive, Federal Policy d) The closing date for the submission of questions to Committee, state parties, regional parties in England, any of the reports listed in the agenda, which shall orders standing 47 Motions for the amendment of the Motions for the orders constitution or standing State and Federal policy Balance between debates motions Compositing or otherwise altering Selection of amendments Motions for the amendment of the constitution or standing orders Selection of motions and amendments Selection of motions and amendments In the case of amendments to the constitution, incomplete in that it leaves unamended some other Similar in effect to another motion which has been selected for debate or ballot at the same meeting of conference. Similar in effect to a motion that has been rejected at either of the last two meetings of conference. Treat any severable part of a motion or amendment as Treat a separate motion or amendment. Redraft a motion or amendment so as to improve inaccuracy or superfluity or take remove expression, account of new developments. Composite similar motions or amendments.

b) c) The Committee may allocate time for one or more policy policy more time for one or may allocate The Committee Copies of selected by ballot. motions to be or business inspection be available for not selected shall motions on representative conference any to supplied be will and and postage. of a copying charge payment 3.2 proposed 4.3, all Order Standing in below detailed as Save must orders or standing constitution the to amendments to for debate or included in a ballot be either selected of an order to determine representatives allow conference time. priority for allocating 3.3 the agenda, have The Committee shall, in drawing up to the balance of State and Federal policy due regard as possible organise debates and in particular shall as far to one or solely relate the agenda so that all matters which Federal or the State Parties not all but parties state more the or beginning the either at considered be shall Party end of the conference. 4. 4.1 shall seek to In drawing up the agenda the Committee as indicated by the the range of views in the Party reflect The Committee motions and amendments submitted. may: a) b) c) 4.2 The Committee shall decide which of the amendments duly submitted to each motion shall be selected. No amendment shall be selected if, in the opinion of the the of scope the outside insubstantial, is it Committee negative of the motion. motion, or tantamount to a direct 4.3 to select a motion for The Committee may refuse if, in amendment of the constitution or standing orders their opinion, it is: a) continued

spring conference agenda and directory 2013 agenda and directory spring conference The shortlisting of motions Voting at consultative sessions at consultative Voting Speaking at consultative sessions The subjects for consultative sessions Later deadlines in special circumstances Notification of deadlines The agenda Consultative sessions

be at least two days before the start of conference, of conference, the start two days before be at least the Parliamentary of questions to the reports except for and Lords of House Commons, of House the in Parties European Parliament, where the closing date shall of the business the start one hour before be at least is due to be considered. report session at which the Notwithstanding 1.5(d), questions may always be listed in the agenda of the reports submitted to any after the deadline events occurring arising from specified in 1.5(d). The deadline for these questions the start of the business before shall be one hour is due to be considered. report session at which the The closing date for proposals for topical issue shall be at least two days before discussions, which the start of conference

The Committee shall draw up the agenda and shall decide which of the motions duly submitted shall be included in it. 3. 3.1 At the discretion of the chair a vote by show of hands hands of show by vote a chair the of discretion the At may be taken to indicate the weight of opinion among on any issue that has been debated. members present 2.3 Any member of the Party may be called to speak at a a at speak to called be may Party the of member Any of the chair, consultative session and, with the approval expertise may also be called. non-members with relevant 2.2 The subjects for debate at consultative sessions shall be chosen by the Committee on the advice of the Federal the Federal appropriate, Policy Committee and, where Executive, and published in the agenda. Two or more such sessions may be held simultaneously. 2. 2.1 In special circumstances the Committee may specify later the Committee may In special circumstances where In particular, dates than those indicated above. of the Committee, developments which, in the opinion importance have taken place after the closing of great are to reports, date for emergency motions and questions for an additional the Committee may make time available to be made on emergency motion or for a statement questions to be behalf of the Party or for additional submitted to reports. 1.7 All dates specified under Standing Order 1.5 shall be 1.5 shall be Order All dates specified under Standing entitled and bodies representatives notified to conference party newspaper to submit motions. Publication in the as notice for this purpose. may be treated 1.6 e) f) standing orders orders standing 48

standing orders Committee may allow timefor emergency motions and for business statedinthenotice ofrequisition savethat the amendments. Themeeting shalldealonlywiththe if appropriate, specifyadateforthesubmission of fix adateforthemeeting, drawuptheagendaand, requisitioning ofaspecialmeetingtheconference, The Committeeshall,assoonpracticableafter the 5.1 5. and whethertheyare likelytoprovoke alivelydiscussion. the significanceandtopicalityofsubjectsproposed choosing thesubjects,Officers shallhaveregard to with theOfficers oftheFederalPolicyCommittee.In be madebytheOfficers oftheCommitteeinconsultation The choiceof subjects for topical issue discussions shall 4.7 select emergencyamendmentsfordebate. The Committeeshallhavecompletediscretion whetherto 4.6 shall bedebatedinthetimeavailable. ballots the Committee shall decide how many motions closing timefortheballot.Followingcountingofany Conference assoonpracticableandshallspecifya of allballotedmotionstotherepresentatives attending more ballots is held the Committee shall circulate the text range ofemergencybusinessmotionstodebate.Ifoneor of arangeemergencypolicymotionsandwhich Committee mayholdseparateballotstoselectwhich for debateorinaballotselectionbyConference. The Standing Order 4.4,mustbeplacedeitherontheagenda All emergencymotions,exceptthoserejected under 4.5 under thisStandingOrder. No amendmentshallbetakentoanymotionselected d) c) b) selected fordebateorballot. a) The Committeemayreject anemergencymotionif: 4.4 e) d) standing orders

It fallsoutsidethedefinitionofemergencymotions. provide asensiblebasisfor debate. the in is, opinion of the Committee, too poorly ordrafted to intent or meaning its to as unclear is It issue discussion. topical a for chosen subject a to effect in similar is It been has that motion another to effect in similar is It Ambiguous. of theamendment. part ofstandingorders which contradictsthemeaning incomplete inthatitleavesunamendedsomeother orders, standing to amendments of case the In of theamendment. part of the constitution which contradicts the meaning Special Meetings Timetabling ofspecialmeetings Topical issuediscussions Emergency amendments Ballots foremergency motions Emergency motions continued approved byamajorityofthosevoting. variation shallbeputtothe voteandshalltakeeffect if in theorder ofbusinessassetoutintheagenda.Such The Committeemaypropose totheconference avariation 8.1 8. chair ofeachsession. The Committeemayappointanaideoraidestoassist the 7.2 than onesessionatanymeeting. by theCommittee.Normallynopersonshallchairmore platform. At all other sessions the chair shall be appointed the from speech formal a making is Leader Party the the formalopeningandclosingofconference andwhen The President, ifpresent, shallnormallytakethechairat 7.1 7. conference. and invitedtoappointasubstitutefortheremainder ofthe their local party or SAO shall be contacted immediately person whoisexcludedavotingmemberofconference, exclusion shallremain inforce pendingtheappeal.If the Committee at the next of its regular meetings. The of theChiefSteward shallhavetherightofappealto Any personexcludedfrom conference byadecision 6.2 has beenallowed. stage oftheagenda-settingprocess atwhichtheappeal an emergencymotionoramendmentaccording tothe is allowed,themotionoramendmentshallbetreated as expressed reasons forrejection are notvalid.Iftheappeal provide reasons why, intheopinionofproposers, the the next meeting of the Committee. Any such appeal shall or amendment.Theproposers mayappeal,inwriting,to nominee oftheproposers fortherejection ofanymotion The Committeeshallprovide writtenreasoning tothe 6.1 6. Appeals shall setsuchdatesasitseesfit. orders but, where thisis not practicable, the Committee the timescaleslaiddownelsewhere inthesestanding conference itself the Committee shall endeavour to follow amendments andgivingnoticethereof andofthe In setting dates for the submission of motions and 5.2 business whichisformalor, initsopinion,uncontentious. Conduct ofDebate The Chair Variation intheorder ofbusiness The chair’s aide Who chairsconference Appeals againstexclusionfrom conference Appeals againstrejection ofmotions Preferred timescalesforspecialmeetings 49

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8.2 Withdrawal of motions and amendments orders. Such a person shall be called to speak for the Once the Committee has included a motion or amendment, same length of time as the person replying on behalf of or part of a motion or amendment, in the agenda, may not the mover of the motion. be withdrawn except by leave of conference. 8.7 The selection of speakers 8.3 The order of debate Voting and non-voting members wishing to speak in The Committee shall direct the order of debate. Generally, any debate shall submit a speaker’s card, prior to the however, a motion will be moved and immediately commencement of the debate in which they wish to thereafter the amendments and options will be moved in speak, stating whether they wish to speak for or against the order directed by the Committee. There will then be a an amendment, the motion or part of the motion. The chair general debate. The movers of amendments and options shall be responsible for the choice of the speakers and (or their nominees) shall have the right of reply in the same shall attempt to provide a balanced debate between the order (except that where an amendment or option has different viewpoints in the conference, but may announce not been opposed during the debate, the chair of the a departure from this rule if there is an overwhelming session shall have the right to direct that its movers shall preponderance of members wishing to speak on the not exercise their right of reply), after which the mover of same side. The chair shall have the discretion to accept the motion (or the mover’s nominee) shall have the right of speakers’ cards after the start of the debate. Save as reply. Votes shall then be taken on the amendments and provided for in these standing orders, no person may options in the order in which they have been moved and, speak more than once in any debate. finally, on the substantive motion. The Committee may direct that part of any motion or amendment or groups or 8.8 The length of speeches amendments may be the subject of a separate debate. The Committee shall set out in the agenda time limits for speeches. 8.4 Topical issue discussions The Committee shall direct the order of the discussion. 9. Voting at Conference Normally the proposer of the subject shall speak first, and a representative of the Federal Policy Committee shall 9.1 The method of voting speak last. Voting cards shall be issued at each meeting to voting members. The Committee may direct that voting on any 8.5 Who may speak issue be by ballot. Subject thereto all votes at full sessions Only voting or non-voting members may speak at a full shall be taken by show of voting cards. session of conference, save that other persons may speak in the following circumstances: 9.2 Counting of votes a) As a member of the Federal Policy Committee A vote by show of voting cards shall be counted: representing that committee in a policy debate. a) If the Committee has so directed. b) As a member of the Federal Conference Committee b) If the chair so directs. representing that committee in debates on standing c) As the result of a procedural motion under Standing orders and matters of conference procedure. Order 11.5 below. c) As a member of the Federal Executive representing A recount will only be held if the chair is not satisfied that that committee on matters of party business. the first count was accurate. d) If called by the chair of the session, after the Committee has given permission. Such permission shall only be 9.3 Separate votes given exceptionally. A separate vote may be taken on a part of a motion or Additionally the Committee may invite any person to amendment: address the conference as a guest. a) On the direction of the Committee. b) At the discretion of the chair. 8.6 The special rights of the Federal Committees c) As a result of a procedural motion under Standing Provided that the Federal Policy Committee is not Order 11.4 below. proposing the motion or any of the amendments to be taken in a debate on a policy motion or on motions 10 Points of Order relating to the policy-making processes of the Party it shall have the right to nominate a person to report its views on 10.1 Making a point of order the subject before the conference. The Federal Executive Any voting member may rise on a point of order which shall have similar rights on business motions or motions to shall be taken immediately except that, during a vote, amend the constitution, as shall the Federal Conference no point of order shall be taken that does not refer to the

standing Committee on motions relating to the proceeding and conduct of the vote. The chair’s decision on all points of orders procedures of the conference and to amend standing order shall be final.

50 spring conference agenda and directory 2013 standing orders continued

11 Procedural Motions debate or vote and, at the discretion of the chair, either the next agenda item shall be taken or there shall be 11.1 Next business an adjournment until the time at which the next agenda a) A voting member may, during any full conference item was due to be taken. session, submit, in writing, a request that conference e) If the substantive motion is referred to the Federal move to next business, giving the reasons to do so. Executive, the Federal Policy Committee or the Federal The submission shall not exceed 75 words. Conference Committee that body shall, in its report to b) The chair may either take the request immediately the next meeting of the conference, state what action upon receipt, or at the end of any speech currently it has taken on the reference. being made. If more than one request is received the chair shall decide which to take. No more than one 11.3 Reference back (moved by the Federal Policy request may be taken in respect to any motion or Committee) report. a) The Federal Policy Committee may, at any time before c) When the request is to be taken, the chair shall read the beginning of the debate on a motion, submit, the statement of reasons and ask conference whether in writing, a request to refer that motion to the next it wishes to consider the request to move to next meeting of the conference. The chair shall announce business. If conference decides, by a simple majority the existence of such a request at the start of the of those voting, to do so, the person who made debate. the request may speak. The chair may allow other b) The chair may take the request to refer back at whatever speakers. All speeches under this standing order shall stage of the debate they consider appropriate. A be limited to two minutes. If conference decides not to nominee of the Federal Policy Committee will speak debate the proposal, it falls. and the mover of the substantive motion, or their d) The proposal shall require a two-thirds majority of nominee, may reply. The chair shall have discretion those voting being to be passed. If it is carried the whether to allow other speakers on the request. current agenda item shall be abandoned without any c) The reference back shall require a simple majority of further debate or vote and, at the discretion of the those voting to be passed. If it is carried the current chair, either the next agenda item shall be taken or agenda item shall be abandoned without any further there shall be an adjournment until the time at which debate or vote and, at the discretion of the chair, either the next agenda item was due to be taken. the next agenda item shall be taken or there shall be an adjournment until the time at which the next agenda 11.2 Reference back (moved by a representative) item was due to be taken. a) A voting member, who has not already spoken in the d) If passed, the Federal Policy Committee shall, before debate, may, at any time before the chair has asked the next meeting of the conference, circulate its the first speaker in reply to stand by, submit, in writing, reasons for acting under this section and its comments a request to refer back the motion under debate. The on the motion and any amendments thereto accepted submission shall state to whom the motion is to be for debate. referred and shall include a statement of the reasons, including reasons why voting against the motion would 11.4 Separate vote not achieve a similar result, not exceeding 75 words. A voting member of conference may request that the chair b) The chair may take the request to refer back at whatever take a separate vote on a part of a motion or amendment stage of the debate they consider appropriate. If more provided that such a request is in writing and received than one request is received, the chair shall decide by the commencement of the first conference session which to take. No more than one request may be on the day before the debate is scheduled. If the debate taken with respect to any motion. is scheduled for the first day of conference, the request c) When the request is to be taken, the chair shall read must be received in writing by the same deadline as the statement of reasons and ask conference whether that for emergency motions. The Committee shall have it wishes to consider the request to refer. If conference complete discretion whether to take a separate vote. In decides, by a simple majority of those voting, to do exceptional circumstances, the Chair of the debate shall so, the person who made the request may speak and have discretion to accept a request for a separate vote if it the mover of the substantive motion, or their nominee, is received in writing after this deadline. may reply. The chair may allow other speakers. All speeches under this standing order shall be limited to 11.5 Counted vote two minutes. If conference decides not to debate the Any voting member may ask for a counted vote, which reference back, it falls. shall be taken if the request is supported by 50 members d) The reference back shall require a simple majority of rising in their places and showing their voting cards. those voting to be passed. If it is carried the current agenda item shall be abandoned without any further orders standing 51 standing orders continued

11.6 Suspension of standing orders 12.3 Whether questions are in order or not a) A voting conference member may, during any full A question shall be ruled out of order if it asks the body conference session, move a motion for the suspension submitting the report about issues which are outside of standing orders. The mover shall submit the motion its duties and responsibilities. If the question could together with a written statement of its purpose, not be answered by another body reporting to the same exceeding 75 words, to the chair, who shall read them conference, the Committee may transfer the question to to the meeting. The chair may either take the request that body. immediately upon receipt, or at the end of the speech currently being made. 12.4 How questions and supplementary questions b) No motion to suspend standing orders may suspend are put and answered any requirement of the constitution, nor any part of After the report is moved, the mover, or their nominee, these standing orders which govern: shall answer the questions in turn. After each question i) The rights of, or timetable for, submission of has been answered, the voting member who submitted motions and amendments. the question will be given the opportunity to put a ii) Consultative sessions. supplementary question, speaking for a maximum of two iii) Procedural motions for next business or suspension minutes, and the mover, or their nominee, will be given of standing orders. an opportunity to respond. The chair shall determine the c) No motion to suspend standing orders to introduce a time given to the mover in moving the report and replying motion or amendment on to the agenda can be taken to questions. The chair shall also determine how many of unless the motion or amendment has been submitted the published questions, and how many of the questions to the Committee in accordance with the published submitted under Standing Order 1.5 (e), can be taken. timetable and, where a right of appeal against non- After the conference the Committee shall publish the selection exists, the right has been exercised. answers to all questions submitted under Standing Orders d) The chair shall read the statement of purpose and, 1.5 (d) and (e) which are in order, and to all supplementary if the suspension is allowable in the terms of this questions asked. standing order, ask the conference whether it wishes to debate the request for suspension. If the conference 12.5 Approval or rejection of reports from Federal decides not to debate the request, it falls. If the Party committees or sub-committees conference decides, by a majority of those present Any report tabled by a Federal Party committee or and voting, to hear the request the mover may speak sub-committee must be submitted for approval by the and a representative of the Committee may reply. The conference and must be voted upon accordingly. A voting chair shall have the discretion to allow other speakers. member may move the rejection of any part of the report All speeches on the motion to suspend standing or of the report as a whole. A voting member wishing to orders will be limited to two minutes. move a rejection shall submit a speaker’s card prior to e) A motion to suspend standing orders shall only be the commencement of the consideration of the report, carried if supported by at least two-thirds of the stating the section(s) which they wish to have rejected. conference members voting. If the procedural motion All moves to reject a report must be debated (except that is carried all standing orders shall remain in force the chair shall have discretion to choose between moves except only for the purposes set out in the motion. to reject the same part of the report), at the conclusion of the question session. The person who made the request 11.7 No procedural motions during votes shall speak and the mover of the report, or their nominee, No procedural motion can be moved during a vote. shall reply. The chair may allow other speakers, and shall determine the time given to all speakers. 12 Reports 12.6 Receipt of reports from other bodies 12.1 Which reports are tabled Any report tabled by a body other than a Federal Party The business session or sessions of the conference must committee or sub-committee must be submitted for receipt include consideration of reports from the bodies listed in by the conference and must be voted upon accordingly. Standing Order 1.1(b). A voting member may move not to receive the report, by submitting a speaker’s card prior to the commencement 12.2 Submission and selection of questions of the consideration of the report. A move not to receive a A voting member may submit questions to any report report must be debated (except that the chair shall have tabled for consideration, by the deadlines set under discretion to choose between more than one move not to Standing Orders 1.5 (d) and (e). The Committee shall receive the same report), at the conclusion of the question publish in advance of the report session all the questions session. The person who made the request shall speak

standing submitted under Standing Order 1.5 (d) which are in order, and the mover of the report, or their nominee, shall reply. orders compositing similar questions where appropriate. The chair may allow other speakers, and shall determine

52 spring conference agenda and directory 2013 standing orders continued the time given to all speakers. 14 The Chair and Vice Chairs of the Committee

13 Amendment of Standing Orders 14.1 Chair and Vice Chairs At its first meeting after a new election the Committee 13.1 Amendment of standing orders shall elect a Chair, who must be a member of the These standing orders may be amended by a two-thirds Committee directly elected by conference, and at least majority of members of conference voting on a motion one Vice Chair, who must be members of the Committee duly submitted and selected in accordance with standing either directly elected by conference or elected by one of orders. Subject to any amendment they shall remain in the State Parties. force from meeting to meeting. the federal party

representatives; and the Chief Executive and two other officers of the federal party members of Federal (HQ and Parliamentary) staff. Leader Rt Hon Nick Clegg MP President Tim Farron MP federal policy committee Chair of FFAC Peter Dunphy Treasurer Sir Ian Wrigglesworth The FPC is responsible for researching and developing Vice President (England) Peter Ellis policy and overseeing the Federal Party’s policy-making Vice President (Scotland) Craig Harrow process. This includes producing policy papers for Vice President (Wales) John Last CBE debate at conference, and drawing up (in consultation Chief Executive Tim Gordon with the relevant parliamentary party) the Federal election manifestos for Westminster and European elections. The FPC has 29 voting members: the Party Leader federal executive and four other MPs; the Party President; one peer; one The FE is responsible for directing, co-ordinating and MEP; three councillors; three state party representatives; implementing the work of the Federal Party, including and fifteen members directly elected by conference overall strategy, campaigning, organisation and staffing. representatives. It must be chaired by one of the five MP The Federal Finance and Administration Committee and members, and is currently chaired by the Leader. the Campaigns and Communications Committee both report to the FE. federal conference committee The FE has 29 voting members: the Party President (who chairs it) and three Vice Presidents; the Leader and two The FCC is responsible for organising the two Federal other MPs; one peer; one MEP; two councillors; three conferences each year. This includes choosing the state party representatives; and fifteen members directly agenda from the policy and business motions submitted elected by conference representatives. by conference representatives, local, regional and state parties, specified associated organisations and Federal committees, and taking decisions on topics such as federal finance and venues, registration rates and other administrative and organisational matters. It works within a budget set by administration committee the FFAC. The FFAC is responsible for planning and administering The FCC has 21 voting members: the Party President; the budget and finances of the Federal Party, directing the Chief Whip; three state party representatives; two its administration and ensuring its compliance with representatives from the FE and two from the FPC; the provisions of the Political Parties, Elections and and twelve members directly elected by conference Referendums Act 2000. It is responsible to the FE, but representatives. It elects its own chair (currently Andrew also reports directly to the Federal Conference. Wiseman), who must be one of the directly elected The FFAC has 14 voting members: the Chair (currently representatives. Peter Dunphy), Party Treasurer and five other members The members of the FCC are shown on page 2. (elected by the FE); the Party President; three state party orders standing 53