The Predistribution Agenda

Presenters: 

Claudia Chwalisz, senior researcher, Policy Network and public service fellow,University of Sheffield 

Patrick Diamond, co-chair, Policy Network and lecturer, Queen Mary, University of London

Opening Remarks: 

Peter A. Hall, Krupp foundation professor, Harvard University

Panel:  

Angela Eagle, Labour MP and shadow secretary of state for business, innovation and skills

Phil Collins, columnist and chief leader writer, The Times 

Polly Toynbee, columnist, The Guardian

Gavin Kelly, chief executive, Resolution Trust 

Concluding Remarks:

Ania Skrzypek, senior research fellow, Foundation for European Progressive Studies

Chair: 

Anthony Painter, director of policy and strategy, RSA

Inequality has been increasing in most major economies, undermining long-term growth prospects and restraining short-term growth by depressing demand. The typical approach to tackling inequality has been redistributive tax-and-transfer fiscal policies. While this remains important, it does not fully address the socio-economic challenges of contemporary society. Arguably, there is a better way to tackle inequality and support sustainable growth: combining predistribution with social investment. 

The predistribution agenda puts in place reforms that promote strong, inclusive growth that by its nature reduces inequality and the need for redistribution in the first place. The key pillars are financial system reform, corporate governance reform, labour market reform, market redesign and tackling inherited concentrations of wealth among the privileged.

We will be launching a new book, The Predistribution Agenda: Tackling Inequality and Supporting Sustainable Growth, edited by Patrick Diamond and Claudia Chwalisz (I.B. Tauris 2015). The volume brings together a range of policies that can stimulate inclusive growth, the institutional challenges of implementing such an agenda, as well as ideas for building political coalitions of support.

If you would like more information or are able to attend please contact Emma Kinloch at

ekinloch@policy-network.net.