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Election 2010

In the run up to the May elections the Smith Institute will be hosting election debates at our Covent Garden offices. These will include John Denham MP on community cohesion, John Healey MP and conservative speakers on housing, Stephen Timms MP on tax reform, Phil Woolas MP on immigration, and Jon Cruddas MP on high pay. Professor John Hills (Chair, National Equality Panel) and Professor Kate Pickett (co-author of The Spirit-Level) will also be debating policies for a fairer society at a joint seminar with the One Society. For more details see upcoming events.

Taxing Our Way Out

The Smith Institute is to hold an inquiry into what measures can be taken to “tax our way out” of the budget deficit. It will focus on how we can maximise tax revenues in a fairer way whilst enabling sustainable growth and competitiveness. The findings will be presented at a parliamentary seminar with Stephen Timms on Thursday 18th March. For more details view our events section.

Policies for a fairer society

Professor John Hills’ in depth report An Anatomy of Economic Inequality in the UK was published today. The Smith Institute can confirm that it will be holding a high-level debate on the report, in association with the One Society, with John Hills and Kate Pickett (co-author of The Spirit Level). Dave Prentis (General Secretary, Unison) has also been invited.

The ‘IT’ Election?

The Smith Institute is undertaking research into how new technology is being used by candidates at the forthcoming election. The study will profile 1000 candidates and look at the extent to which new technology is changing campaigning and electioneering. The findings will be debated at a Smith Institute and Left Foot Forward seminar in March. For more details see our events section.

New Research Fellows

The Smith Institute is pleased to announce its new research fellows. The new fellows include: Chris Wales, David Coats, Amanda Jordan, Andy Rumfitt, Nick Isles, Neil Churchill, Jacques Reland, Professor John Tomaney and Professor Sheldon Leader.