The Adam Smith Institute are hosting a series of panel discussions and debates at the Conservative Party Conference that are free to attend for any Conservative Party Conference attendees. To find out more, email events@adamsmith.org

We’re partnering with Octopus for a session on rebooting consumer capitalism. There is growing public sentiment that the retail energy market isn't working, water firms aren't delivering, rail franchising is failing, and broadband availability is too low. These industries affect nearly everyone in their daily lives. Competition should be at the heart of any solution. Streamlining the sector regulators could minimise producer capture, cut bureaucracy and simplify regulations. The innovation spurred on by Open Banking could spread to other sectors if consumers are given more power over their data. Various reforms to the rail franchise system can promote a greater role for on-track competition, delivering on the promises of choice and better service.

We will discuss the most effective reforms that could restore the public’s trust in these vital sectors, and consumer capitalism at large. Chaired by our Head of Research Sam Dumitriu, speakers include John Penrose MP, Chris Hulatt of Octopus, Bim Afolami MP, Fingleton Associates’ Eleanor Mack, and Oliver Wiseman (Editor of CapX).

We're hosting it inside the Secure Zone (so you'll need a conference pass) in Executive Room 8 of the ICC. The event's free to attend, no need to RSVP, just turn up at 4pm.

To find out more about Octopus, please visit https://octopusgroup.com and use their Twitter handle during the event (@OisforOctopus) here.