We are proud to announce that the WED Project will be hosting a special session at this year’s WPEG conference on July 16th. The WED special session will feature presentations from five speakers who will share findings and insights from research using the WED datasets:
- Dr. Van Phan (University of the West of England) will present “A Wage Spine for Britain,” exploring the structure and progression of wages across different sectors and regions.
- Mike Brewer (Resolution Foundation) will delve into “Looking at Wage Volatility Using the ASHE PAYE Datasets,” providing a detailed analysis of wage fluctuations using comprehensive payroll data.
- Dr. Ezgi Kaya (Cardiff University) will discuss “Labour Market Performance and Integration of Immigrant Workers,” examining how immigrant workers are faring in the UK labour market.
- Damian Whittard (University of the West of England) will present “Working Towards a Greener Future: Who, Where, and What For?” focusing on the implications of the green transition for different sectors and regions.
- Dr. John Forth (City University) will explore “The Impact of a Rising Wage Floor on Labour Mobility Across Firms,” outlining how increasing minimum wages affect worker movement between firms.
The session will conclude with a Panel Q&A session, allowing attendees to engage directly with the team, discuss the presented research, and the future of the project.

Background
The WPEG conference is the UK’s premier labour conference, joining researchers, policymakers, and practitioners within the field. This annual gathering provides a platform for discussing the most up-to-date research, policy developments, and theoretical advancements. The conference is known for its in-depth academic sessions, engaging panel discussions, and valuable networking opportunities.
What to Expect
This year’s WPEG conference promises to be an exciting and inspiring event. Attendees can look forward to a series of presentations covering a wide range of topics within labour economics. From employment trends to wage dynamics and labour market policies, the conference will offer a comprehensive overview of current issues and research within the field. Additionally, panel discussions and Q&A sessions will provide a platform for debate and the exchange of ideas across the community.
The WPEG conference is a highlight of the year for anyone involved in labour economics, and the WED Project Special Session promises to generate some insightful reflection and conversation. Join us, as we hear from leading researchers, engage in debate, and contribute to an ongoing dialogue about wage and employment dynamics in the UK.