Gordon and tonic? This come-on in the glossy Labour conference guide, handed to delegates arriving in Bournemouth on Sunday, is not an invitation to an earnest debate on socialism. Instead, the event – Virgin Media-sponsored drinks at the Hot Rocks bar during today’s prime ministerial address – symbolises the degree to which a big corporate presence has become part and parcel of the party conference season.

The most obvious manifestations of industry influence on the political seaside gatherings are the exhibition stands, with corporate and industry bodies’ logos standing out in the conference hall amid the plethora of charity and union branding. Exhibitors say the advantages are simple: access to decision-makers and other lobbyists.