Do we need a new constitution to devolve greater power from Westminster to the nations and regions of the UK?

Session 2

Despite 21 years of devolution, the Tory Government’s handling of Brexit and Covid 19 has confirmed that the UK is one of the most centralised states in the world. But now it seems everyone is in favour of constitutional change – Tories, Labour, Lib Dems and of course, nationalists.

We should remember that constitutions are not neutral; they are devised to deliver for those in power, and in our society that is supporters of global capitalism. Keeping our markets open to international business through neo-liberal policies is imbedded in our legislation, in trade deals including that recently struck with the EU and could be enshrined in any future written constitution.

Claim the Future is hosting three sessions under the title Nations & Regions: Radicalising the British State. These sessions will bring together politicians, academics and campaigners from Scotland, Wales and Regions of England to identify the key demands for radical constitutional change that can bring power to the people.

Speakers:

Chair - John McDonnell MP

Pauline Bryan, Red Paper Collective

16.20 Arianna Giovannini -Reader in Local Politics & Public Policy De Montfort University

16.35 James Mitchell - Professor of Public Policy Edinburgh University

16.50 Paul O’Connell -Reader in Law SOAS London University