The Conservative Party conference currently underway in Birmingham is facing criticism regarding its attendance levels and overall energy. Reports indicate that the event lacks the typical congestion associated with major political conferences, with attendees experiencing no wait times for food or access to event halls.

While the Conservative Party has not officially commented on the attendance figures, the atmosphere has been described by some observers as significantly more subdued than previous years. The Guardian characterized the event as lacking the "high-octane" nature expected of a party preparing for government, comparing the mood to a local social club meeting rather than a national political convention.

There is a notable contrast between the current event and the recent Labour Party conference in Liverpool, which was marked by higher engagement and active policy debates. The lack of foot traffic at the Birmingham venue has led to speculation about the party's current standing and internal morale following their recent electoral defeat. While some view the lack of crowds as a sign of a party in decline, others might argue that the smaller scale allows for more focused, "civilized" policy discussions, though the current reporting focuses heavily on the perceived lack of enthusiasm.