Labour policies are developed through the National Policy Forum. The role of the NPF is to shape the Party’s policy agenda by a process of consultations, drawing up policy documents for agreement at the annual Conference.
The NPF consists of 200 members in total from across the Labour party, including the CLPs and regions, affiliated Trade Unions, Socialist societies, MPs and Councillors. Each member sits on one of 8 Policy Commissions which meet regularly throughout the year and produce reports for the annual Conference.
The Economy, Business and Trade Policy Commission
develops Labour’s economic and business policy, including industrial strategy and international trade; dealing with issues of productivity, skills and infrastructure, and the creation of industrial and trade strategies.
The International Policy Commission
develops Labour’s international policy. It is responsible for foreign policy, international development, defence and Britain’s future relationship with Europe.
The Health and Social Care Policy Commission
develops Labour policy and thinking on areas including the future of the NHS, mental health, public health and social care.
The Early Years, Education and Skills Policy Commission
looks at issues relating to children’s wellbeing, development and care, as well as education training and skills in childhood throughout life.
The Justice and Home Affairs Policy Commission
examines Labour thinking on issues such as policing, the justice system, immigration and asylum, and political and constitutional reform.
The Housing, Local Government and Transport Policy Commission
develops Labour policy concerning local government and devolution, housing and housebuilding, and Britain’s transport infrastructure and services.
The Work, Pensions and Equality Policy Commission
is charged with developing Labour’s policy on social security, poverty and equalities. This includes how we address low pay, reduce inequality and promote social justice.
The Environment, Energy and Culture Policy Commission
is tasked with leading Labour’s policy development on the environment, energy and climate change, food and rural affairs, and culture, the media, the creative industries, tourism, heritage and sport.