A security pass is required at all times to attend events in either of the secure Conference venues, Birmingham ICC or Hyatt Regency Birmingham.

04/10/2026

16.00  The Spectator

Birmingham ICC : Hall 8b

Coffee House Shots Live - welcome reception

Join The Spectator’s team to kick off party conference with a glass of wine. Meet Michael Gove and Tim Shipman, as well as subscribers from across the country, and toast the start of three days of stimulating discussion and debate.

05/10/2026

13.30  The Spectator

Birmingham ICC : Hall 8b

Quite right! Live

Join The Spectator’s Quite right! team for a live podcast recording. Michael Gove and a special guest will entertain, amuse and inform in an hour-long chat on day two of conference. Please see the online listing for more information.

15.00  The Spectator in association with the Post Office

Birmingham ICC : Hall 8b

The Future of Britain’s High Streets: From Decline to Renewal

High streets are where people feel economic and social change most acutely. From bank closures and declining footfall to the loss of local services, they have become a symbol of the challenges facing communities. As high street renewal climbs the political agenda, our panel will ask: what should the high street of the future look like, and how can trusted local institutions help bring people, services and economic activity back to communities?

18.30  The Spectator in association with Visa

Birmingham ICC : Hall 8b

Private drinks reception: The Spectator x Visa

Join us for the launch of Let’s Celebrate Towns 2026, a national competition run by Visa and Nationwide Building Society, recognising the towns that are helping local businesses, communities and residents thrive. By invitation only.

06/10/2026

10.30  The Spectator in association with the Institute for Government

Birmingham ICC : Hall 8b

Leaders of Tomorrow: How Can the UK Develop Politicians Fit for the Future?

Good government requires good political leadership. This means it is vital to find and support the political leaders of the future. But while many sectors have career development pathways, there is less focus on helping future political leaders develop the skills and knowledge they need to do their jobs well. How can the UK build a pipeline of future talent? What support do future leaders need? And who should provide this training and support?

14.00  The Spectator

Birmingham ICC : Hall 8b

The Spectator in conversation with a shadow cabinet minister

Join The Spectator’s editor Michael Gove and a shadow cabinet minister. Please see the online listing for more information.