That was certainly the impression I got from hearing new ministers speak about the policy issues that sit in their departmental in-trays. Now that’s not a bad thing, in my opinion, it suggests that the seriousness of making decisions is weighing more on them than the soundbites of opposition.

Unfortunately, some participants did not get the memo. In some fringe meetings, where honesty should prevail but playing to the gallery is all too common instead, I heard some pretty shocking opinions. Not from rank and file members of the party but keynote speakers representing businesses and NGOs.

One such comment, which literally took the breath away from delegates, was from the CEO of a leading UK NGO who spoke of “compelling consumers” to install new heating systems. No ability to choose a technology, say between heat pumps and boilers; no ability to switch energy suppliers; but simply if you live in place XX you will be forced to heat your home this way.

I’m not sure if this person has ever sought election before, but if they had done so, telling voters they have no choice; that they will do as they are told, is not a great sales pitch. Any minister following the advice from this NGO will soon be out of a job.

But I’ll leave you with a quote from the Deputy Prime Minister in her keynote speech, which I will commit to memory “And Keir and I are determined to end this ‘Whitehall knows best’ approach and trust those with skin in the game.”

That’s something we can all agree on.