THE Labour Party is coming to Brighton for its annual party conference.

Running between Saturday and Wednesday, its a time for the political party to connect with its members, vote on issues, raise funds and showcase its policies.

It will take place between two venues – Brighton Centre and Hilton Brighton Metropole – with Sussex Police increasing their presence across the seafront.

Those attending will need to show proof of double vaccination, or show a negative lateral flow test taken over the 24 hours previously.

'Make or break for Keir'

The party's rank and file are gathering in the city for leader Keir Starmer's first conference since taking charge. It is reported to be "make or break" for his leadership.

His big moment will come on Wednesday, the final day, for the leader's speech where he will address the party in person from the lectern.

However, he will also be seen out and about across the coast in the coming days, speaking to residents and businesses.

The country will find out more about his vision for the Labour Party, which is expected to include improvements to working conditions and rights.

Sir Keir has previously promised that a Labour government would see an end to zero-hours contracts and the minimum wage increased to £10 an hour.

It is reported that Sir Keir could face challenges to his leadership from rival Andy Burnham, who has been vocal in his criticism over the last few weeks.

Armed police

Sussex Police have warned residents that they may see firearms officers patrolling the streets over the course of the conference, urging people not to be alarmed.

A spokeswoman said: "We provide security for political conferences and measures are in place to make sure the event runs smoothly and safely, with months of preparation for any eventualities.

With a number of events planned throughout the conference period and university Freshers Week increasing activity in the city centre, a Section 34 dispersal order has been put in place for the area until Thursday."

Women's only spaces

There is “no reason to expect” Labour will change its policy on allowing for “women-only” spaces, according to a spokesman, amid a dispute in the party over transgender issues.

MP Rosie Duffield had called for clarity on Labour’s equalities position after announcing she did not feel safe to attend the party’s conference this weekend, having previously spoken out on the trans debate.

A party spokesman said Sir Keir met the Canterbury MP on Tuesday, along with holding separate discussions with the “LGBT caucus within” the Parliamentary Labour Party (PLP) to discuss “where we are on the policy issues”.

Asked whether Sir Keir believed trans women “should be allowed in all public spaces”, the spokesman said Labour policy remained as it was in the 2019 manifesto when Jeremy Corbyn was leader.