Responsible Business Day at Labour Party Conference: Join two crucial events on business, human rights and the environment

When workers’ rights are denied, whole families are affected. When rivers are polluted, our communities suffer. When big brands dodge their obligations, responsible UK businesses are undercut. 

However, as seen in recent statements from the Joint Committee on Human Rights, the Business and Trade Committee and the Government’s own trade strategy, there’s increasing recognition that responsible business laws can change things for the better and help build an economy that works for everyone.

As we look forward to Labour Conference in Liverpool this year, Sunday 28 September is shaping up to be “Responsible Business Day”: a moment to spotlight the growing political momentum for stronger laws to support UK businesses in protecting human rights, workers' rights and the environment here in the UK and throughout their global value chains.

The Corporate Justice Coalition and the Ethical Trading Initiative are hosting two events bringing together trade union leaders, producer perspectives, civil society, policymakers and businesses to discuss tangible solutions for protecting workers, families and the planet while supporting companies committed to responsible practices.

Event 1: Good Business: Why mHREDD delivers for everyone

📍 Albert 4, Hilton Hotel, Liverpool
 🕒 12:00 – 13:30
 🎤 Confirmed Speakers:

• Paul Nowak, General Secretary, Trades Union Congress
• Helen Moulinos, CEO Anti-Slavery International
• Dame Sara Thornton, Director Modern Slavery, CCLA and former UK Independent Anti-Slavery Commissioner
• Giles Bolton, Executive Director, Ethical Trading Initiative

This diverse panel brings together key voices from the labour movement, business, and civil society to explore why mandatory human rights and environmental due diligence legislation is not only necessary, but also beneficial for everyone.

Event 2: Planet, Profit and People: Who pays the price for corporate harms?

📍 The Bluecoat, 8 School Lane, Liverpool L1 3BX
 🕒 15:15 – 16:30
 🎤 Confirmed Speakers:

• Rt Hon Lord Falconer of Thoroton
• Martin Rhodes MP, Glasgow North
• Dominique Muller, Director, Corporate Justice Coalition
• Asad Rehmen, CEO, Friends of the Earth
• Hannah Bond, Co-CEO, ActionAid UK
• Nancy Githaiga, Tea Farmer and Factory Unit Manager at Gatunguru Tea Factory, Kenya
• Marie Rumsby, Director of Communications and Advocacy, Fairtrade Foundation

This rich panel will ground the policy discussion in real-world examples, explore how corporate harms are affecting people and the planet and discuss which policy solutions are needed to protect human rights and the environment at home and abroad whilst providing clarity and a level playing field for business.

Why now?

This year, the Labour Government has announced two major policy reviews focused on business and human rights. The Department for Business and Trade has launched a review of its approach to responsible business conduct and the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office is conducting a National Baseline Assessment of the UK’s implementation of the UN Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights.

This is a critical opportunity for change and for Labour to show leadership on responsible business and sustainable supply chains. 

Whether you're a policymaker, campaigner, business leader, or delegate, Sunday at Labour Conference is your chance to be part of the growing movement to make business fairer, cleaner, and more accountable.

Spread the word,  bring your questions, and join the conversation.

📍 12:00 – Hilton | 15:15 – The Bluecoat

 Let’s make Responsible Business Day count.