-Progress annual conference was the highlight of the recent calendar. Former Progress vice chair turned Labour leader Ed Miliband gave his first post-May election analysis, calling on the party to avoid ‘false choices’. The closing Question Time was very popular with delegates: Douglas Alexander MP, Jacqui Smith, David Aaronovitch and Oona King spoke with passion about the future of the New Labour project and Labour as a winning coalition. Alexander’s brilliant analysis has already made its way into this month’s editorial (which we are sure you have already read) and Smith’s ‘I won’t apologise for the success of the New Labour project that changed Britain for the better’ might have been for the cheap seats but the whole hall lapped it up. Thanks to everyone who spoke, chaired and attended – the day was a real success all round. You can watch much of the conference on our website at: archive.progressonline.org.uk/pac11
-The Policy 2020 series continues. Maria Eagle MP debated the balance between sustainability and social justice with an expert panel. Caroline Flint MP’s event on housing takes place as we go to print and we have events with John Denham MP and Sadiq Khan MP planned before the summer parliamentary recess. Find out more at archive.progressonline.org.uk/events
-Again as we go to press, Peter Mandelson is ‘in conversation with John Rentoul’ from the Independent at a special event for Progress members in the Grand Committee Room of the Commons.
-The Labour 4 High Speed 2 campaign is gathering momentum as Manchester’s local government committee adds its support alongside others. This is the biggest party grouping to swing behind the campaign to date and adds a great level of support. Sign the petition at www.progressives.org.uk/Labour4HighSpeed2
-Finally, we are sure that all Progress members are as excited as we are that Tony Blair is making his first return to domestic politics at an event to celebrate Progress at 15, exclusively for our members.
If you have not got your tickets for the 8 July event, email [email protected]. Plus see page 15 for full details of our 100 club reception with the former prime minister