Politics rests on beliefs. Political parties that operate without a philosophical framework stand for little more than personality and populism. But equally, beliefs must rest on thought – they must be continually defined, tested and debated rather than simply inherited unquestioningly.

Liberalism, the tradition of political thought on which Liberal Democrats’ philosophy rests, possesses an immensely rich history, stretching back over three hundred years. Over this period it has evolved to suit changing political circumstances, but has its core remained recognisably constant?

The historical roots of the Liberal belief in liberty, equality, community, democracy, internationalism and environmentalism were discussed with Professor Jonathan Parry (author of Liberalism (Agenda Publishing, 2025)) and Professor David Howarth. Chair: Baroness Featherstone.

The meeting also marked the launch of the new and completely revised edition of the Liberal Democrat History Group’s popular booklet, Liberalism: the ideas that built the Liberal Democrats.