Lobbyists are facing increased fees to attend Labour’s autumn conference this year, reflecting heightened interest following Andy Burnham’s appointment as Prime Minister. The event is scheduled to take place in Liverpool from September 27 to 30.

According to multiple reports, lobbyists have been quoted prices exceeding £5,000, excluding VAT, to participate in the conference’s industry-focused business day, marking a significant rise from previous years. In 2024, attendance fees were approximately £3,000, climbing to £5,000 last year, and now reportedly reaching £5,500. This increased cost comes amid a renewed focus on the conference as a key gathering for business engagement under Burnham’s leadership. Prior to his assumption of office, some lobbyists had considered foregoing the event altogether.

In addition, one lobbying firm is said to be charging between £10,000 and £15,000 to host a one-hour panel session in their allocated space at the conference. Standard commercial guest passes have also risen in cost, now priced at £1,820, compared with £1,600 the previous year and only £500 in 2024. Attendees from the third sector, including charity workers, must pay £645 to attend, up from £552 last year.

The overall cost of hospitality at the event has also increased. For example, at the Hilton hotel—widely regarded as the conference’s central venue—a bottle of rosé wine is priced at £50 for event organisers. Beer costs £9.50 per bottle, while fruit juice is listed at £14 per jug, and tap water at £3.50 per jug.

A Labour spokesperson commented that the business day offers "a valuable opportunity for meaningful engagement between senior Labour figures and business leaders from across industry," emphasising the importance of the event for fostering dialogue between government and the private sector.