Education, 'pre-distribution' and the living standards crisis

A discussion with Professor Jacob Hacker, Stanley B. Resor Professor of Political Science at Yale University

Policy Network and the University of Central Lancashire (UCLan) will host a seminar with US academic and political commentator Jacob Hacker of Yale University.

Twelve months ago, the word ‘pre-distribution’ entered the political lexicon and immediately divided political and economic opinion. ‘Pre-distribution’ has been repeatedly cited by Ed Miliband as a cornerstone of his responsible capitalism agenda, but mocked by David Cameron in a prime minister’s questions session.

Jacob Hacker, who introduced the concept to Ed Miliband and other European leaders at a Policy Network conference in Oslo in 2009, will lead this seminar discussing what ‘pre-distribution’ would mean for education and social mobility in the UK. How far does education have the potential to help address concerns about falling living standards and rising inequality at a time when developed country governments across the world are reining back budgets to cut deficits?

Speakers:
Alan Manning, professor of economics, LSE
Sonia Sodha, head of policy and strategy, Dartington Social Research Unit
Graeme Cooke, director of research, IPPR
Kitty Ussher, senior fellow, The Smith Institute
Margaret Hodge, Labour member of Parliament and chair, Public Accounts Committee
John McFall, Labour peer and chair, Fabian Commission on Future Spending Choices
Philip Collins, columnist and leader writer, The Times
Patrick Diamond, senior research fellow, Policy Network

Topics for discussion include:
•         How can we do more in education and learning with less money?
•         What kind of education, skills and labour market agenda for Britain?
•         What role for education in improving social mobility?

A video of Jacob Hacker's presentation can be viewed here.



.
.
.
This event is organised in association with the University of Central Lancashire (UCLan).
.