Despite the lowest unemployment rate for 40 years in the UK – now at under 4% - standard economic measures are often blind to the underemployed. How do we assess what is happening behind the headline figures and what does it mean for economic inclusion? How can business help address this problem? What policies are needed to deal with the changing nature and quality of work?

David G. Blanchflower will present the findings of his most recent book, Not working, on the economics of labour and well-being to explain why today's post-recession economy is vastly different from what came before. In an attempt to break down the number of workers that are underemployed or have simply given up trying to find a well-paying job, he shows how wage growth has not returned to pre-recession levels and how general prosperity has not returned since the crash of 2008. Referred to as one of the most unacknowledged social catastrophes of our time, affecting the young and less skilled most severely, he sets out the link to the rise of anti-immigrant sentiment and right-wing populism.

The Centre for Progressive Policy will engage in conversation with key topics of Blanchflower's publication that cross-over with CPP's work strands, including skills and the role of business in society.

David G. Blanchflower is the Bruce V. Rauner Professor of Economics at Dartmouth College and a research associate at the National Bureau of Economic Research. He is also the co-author of The Wage Curve.

Arrival time is 4:45

The event will be followed by drinks and nibbles.

We are kindly asking attendees to present their ticket at the entrance. Please note, latecomers may not be admitted.