The Independent Commission on Community & Cohesion has continued to move at pace in recent weeks with both its regular programme of Commissioner meetings and the development of the national conversation. Most recently, commissioners met to discuss The Economy, Business & Employment, exploring how good work, economic opportunity and local enterprise can strengthen connection and trust across Britain.
At the evidence session for the theme, commissioners heard from a wide range of leading experts in this field, including Andy Haldane, former Chief Economist at the Bank of England. On the economic foundations of cohesion in particular, Haldane warned that politicians and economists have long neglected the role of social capital in the economy, calling it the “dark matter of growth.” He argued that while governments have invested billions in physical infrastructure – from roads and rail to broadband – they have overlooked the “connective tissue” that holds economies and communities together: the parks, community centres and youth clubs that enable people to meet and build trust. “Without the social capital that binds us,” he said, “the rest just falls to bits.”
Other witnesses brought a wide range of perspectives on the role of business and the economy in shaping the fabric of community life. Paul Johnson, former Director of the IFS, pointed to fairness and opportunity as the foundations of a strong and stable economy, while Professor Kate Pickett highlighted how inequality erodes both wellbeing and social trust. Ronnie Chatterji, OpenAI’s first Chief Economist, also discussed how technology and innovation might support a fairer, more inclusive economy. In addition to the formal evidence session, commissioners also heard evidence from Aviva, Business in the Community and the Confederation of British Industry as part of the wide ranging evidence gathering process.
In the subsequent all commissioner session, the discussion examined the relationship between economic factors such as inequality, wealth and deprivation, and social connection, as well as the importance of social capital for growth. Commissioners also discussed the importance of decent work and fair opportunity, and the civic role of business in strengthening local community life. As the Commission continues its inquiry, a clear picture is emerging: economic strength and social connection are not competing goals, but two sides of the same coin. Understanding that relationship will be central to shaping the recommendations ahead.
Following earlier discussions on education, commissioners will turn their attention in the coming weeks to voice, trust and what holds us together before exploring digital connection, social media and AI early next year – continuing to build a fuller picture of what strengthens connection and cohesion across the country.
We remain committed to hearing from a wide range of experts throughout our work. If you would be interested in contributing, please do get in touch.