The Labour Party Annual Conference 2025

BRITISH MUSLIM FRIENDS OF LABOUR & SME4LABOUR LUNCH

Speakers:

• Baron Evans of Sealand 
• Andy Burnham, Mayor of Greater Manchester (invited)
• Rushanara Ali ,Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Homelessness and Rough Sleeping (invited)

Host: Shokat Ali ,Chairman, British Muslim Friends of Labour

The British Muslim Friends of Labour and SME4Labour Lunch, held during The Labour Party Annual Conference 2025, brought together a diverse group of political leaders, business figures, and community representatives to celebrate the contribution of British Muslims to public life and the Labour movement.

Hosted by Shokat Ali, Chairman of British Muslim Friends of Labour, the event at EastZEast Restaurant provided a vibrant and inclusive space for dialogue, reflection, and connection.

Discussions throughout the lunch highlighted the growing influence and engagement of British Muslims across politics, business, and civic society. Speakers reflected on the importance of representation, community leadership, and active participation in shaping a more inclusive and equitable society. The role of small businesses and entrepreneurs within British Muslim communities was also recognised as a key driver of economic growth and social mobility.

A central theme of the event was the need to strengthen collaboration between policymakers and communities to address shared challenges, including economic opportunity, social cohesion, and equal access to public services. The conversation emphasised that meaningful engagement and partnership are essential to building trust and ensuring that diverse voices are heard within the political process.

The lunch also provided an opportunity to reinforce the strong relationship between the Labour movement and British Muslim communities, underlining shared values of fairness, opportunity, and social justice.

The event concluded with an engaging networking session, enabling attendees to build connections, exchange ideas, and explore future collaborations. Overall, the lunch served as an important platform for celebrating community contributions while advancing a forward-looking agenda for inclusion and participation within the UK’s political and economic landscape.

Bios:

Shokat Ali

Philanthropist at heart, Shokat Ali is the Chairman of the British Muslim Friends of Labour and the President of the International Peace and Prosperity Forum. Shokat discovered his love for helping people selflessly early on in his life and has tried his best to be there for anyone and everyone whenever they need him ever since.

As the Chairman of the British Muslim Friends of Labour, Shokat acts as a bridge between the Muslim community and the Labour Party. Through the British Muslim Friends of Labour, Shokat also encourages Muslims to be active members of the community and be involved in the community and play an active role in politics. Shokat is included in Muslim Power 100.