In economic policy debates, those on the right tend to argue for the need to spur growth, while those on the left focus on tackling inequality. The ‘politics of production’ - how to empower small businesses, for example - has been more associated with conservatives, while progressives have emphasised welfare, tax and transfer.

But with increasing concerns that redistribution alone isn’t enough to address inequality, what does a progressive agenda for production and supply look like? Can ‘production’ be reclaimed for the left?

As co-author of Nesta’s new report Unleashing Imagination: Democratising the Knowledge Economy, Prof Roberto Unger was in conversation with leading political economist Lord Robert Skidelsky, Shadow Minister for the Cabinet Office, Jon Trickett MP, Shadow Minister for Industrial Strategy, Science and Innovation, Chi Onwurah MP, and Nesta’s Chief Executive Geoff Mulgan, to discuss these questions in the context of Labour’s plans for the economy and democracy.

This event complements our sold-out event Democratising the Knowledge Economy, and was an opportunity to hear from Roberto Unger and our high-level speakers in a more intimate setting.