Neil Kinnock was first elected to the House of Commons as an MP for Bedwellty (later Islywn) in 1970. He ascended through the Labour ranks and after a period as party education spokesman, replaced Michael Foot as the party leader and leader of the opposition in 1983. During his time as leader, Mr Kinnock modernised the organisation, constitution and policies of the party, ending positions such as unilateral disarmament, hostility to the EU and widespread nationalisation. He stepped down from the party leadership in 1992 and three years later was appointed to the European Commission. He was European Commissioner for Transport from 1995 to 1999 and from 1999 to 2004 Vice-President of the Commission. He is a life peer in the House of Lords, Chair of the British Council and President of Cardiff University.

Neil Kinnock chaired the Opening Plenary.