The Assetocracy: Wealth, Power, and Elitism in the House of Lords

A panel discussion chaired by Professor Matthew Flinders, one of the UK's leading political scientists and a renowned commentator on democracy and governance. He will be joined by Dr Huw Macartney and Baroness Natalie Bennett, former Leader of the Green Party and current member of the House of Lords, bringing first-hand experience of policymaking and political debate at the highest levels. The panel will offer unique insights into how wealth, power and influence shape political life in contemporary Britain.

A panel discussion drawing on Dr Huw Macartney’s book “The Assetocracy”, due to be published with Edinburgh University Press in October 2026. the panel will explore the relationship between wealth, inequality and political power in Britain. Bringing together perspectives from academia, journalism and the House of Lords, we will ask who holds influence in British politics, how wealth shapes political decision-making, and what this means for democracy. Attendees will benefit from a behind-the-scenes look at the connections between wealth and politics - in both Westminster and at the local level. 

Dr Huw Macartney, Political Economy at University of Birmingham

Open to individuals and groups with a general interest in politics and current affairs.

May be of interest to people working to combat inequality and poverty who want to understand how policies are shaped at Westminster. 

October 26th