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In this episode of the ICA Legal Office “Interviews with Members and Experts” series, ICA Director of Legislation Santosh Kumar speaks with Ian Adderley — barrister, author of Cooperatives: Linking Theory and Practice, and former senior official overseeing mutuals and cooperative societies at the UK Financial Conduct Authority.
Their conversation explores what truly defines a cooperative, why cooperative law matters, and how legislation can remain flexible enough to support innovation while preserving cooperative identity. Ian reflects on the importance of member participation, the evolution of the UK’s legal framework for cooperatives, and the challenges of defining cooperatives in a changing economic landscape.
The episode also looks at the role of cooperatives in sectors ranging from retail and ethical banking to sport and community ownership — including the surprising fact that many historic cricket clubs in England and Wales are structured as cooperative societies.
Drawing on decades of experience across regulation, legal practice, and the cooperative movement, Ian shares thoughtful insights on how cooperatives emerge where communities seek fairness, trust, and long-term stability beyond conventional market models.
With thanks to Ian Adderley for a conversation full of clarity, humour, and insight, and with appreciation for the support of the ICA-EU Partnership #Coops4Dev🌍.
