Every autumn political parties gather for their Annual Conferences. A chance for politicians and the party faithful to come together to discuss policy ideas and hear from spokespeople. These events have become even more important against the backdrop of the fast-paced political developments seen in the UK over the past few years.
Conferences also feature an exhibition area, where companies and campaign organisations can show off their latest developments and recruit supporters for their campaigns. The fringe meetings during the breaks are often where much of the real debate takes place, with discussions on every topic imaginable.
This year the Labour Conference took place in Liverpool, while the Conservatives travelled to Birmingham and the Liberal Democrat Conference was cancelled due to the Queen’s funeral.

Crustacean Compassion was at both conferences to talk to politicians and attend animal-related fringe meetings. Against the backdrop of the looming General Election, scheduled to take place in the next 18 months, both the Labour Animal Welfare Society and Conservative Animal Welfare Foundation are turning their attention to upcoming manifesto commitments.
There was recognition at both conferences that the passage of the Animal Welfare (Sentience) Act, which recognises decapod crustaceans as sentient animals, will necessitate an updating to other animal welfare legislation including the Animal Welfare Act.
Crustacean Compassion continues to push for these changes to provide legal protections and stop cruel practices like boiling alive and sending animals live through the post. As well as pushing for progress across the four nations of the UK we’re also working to ensure commitments to take action are contained in the manifestos before the UK goes to the polls in 2024.