Broadsword hosted its first B. Inspired event of 2024, inviting senior event, marketing, and communication professionals to delve into the latest trends and challenges in the global political landscape, and micebook was lucky enough to attend.

Taking place at the iconic Soho House on Greek Street, attendees gathered for a morning session featuring a captivating keynote address by award-winning political journalist and broadcaster, Steve Richards.

Drawing upon his extensive experience, Richards provided insightful commentary on the forces driving political change and their implications for businesses worldwide.

“We’re going to have a few months of epic political drama. We are on the edge of history. If the opinion polls are right, we’re going to get a Labour government” Richards told the audience, discussing the upcoming UK general election and mood at Westminster right now, which he described as “feverish and neurotic”.

Though he warned that polls can and have been wrong in the past, so nothing is certain and there are plenty of wildcards that could impact the outcome, such as Reform, Scotland, the Liberal Democrats and turnout.

Richards also shared his insights on the leadership styles and personalities of the two main party leaders, Rishi Sunak and Keir Starmer, and the implications for the election, and explained why the timing of the election will be crucial, especially with the US set to go the polls this year as well.

He said that if the British election ends up taking place later in the year at a similar time to the US election, the fear of instability could potentially have an impact on our election. “The world order will feel very highly charged.”

He added: “If Trump wins it will almost be a moment of cinematic drama and will impact on Britain. If Trump loses and it’s close, many people are predicting there could be violence on an epic scale.”

On a positive note for businesses, he said that the economy will continue be a huge focus in the UK, and if there is a new government, they will do almost anything to drive economic growth.

Diane Carters, head of commercial development at Broadsword, expressed delight at the overwhelming positive response from attendees: “Events and communications professionals need to be ahead of the curve, and bite-size sessions like this offer a great opportunity to dive into quite complex topics.”