Cooperatives NorthWest

On Thursday 12 January, the Guardian presented a live debate online called "Can co-operation rebuild British business?". This live streamed event marked the start of the UN International Year of Co-operatives 2012.

The panel discussion - featuring Ed Mayo, secretary general at Co-operatives UK, Dame Pauline Green, president at the International Co-operative Alliance, Len Wardle, chair of the co-operative group, Charles Leadbeater, economist, and Li Chunsheng , vice-president at the All China Federation of Supply and Marketing Co-operatives – kick started a debate about the role and impact of co-operatives.

Thousands of viewers tuned in online to watch the live panel debate, with many participating in the debate on social networks such as Twitter and Facebook.

Those who missed it can view a recording of the debate here or read the write up here.

You can also visit the Guardian's co-operatives and mutuals hub for all the latest comment and analysis throughout the International Year of Co-operatives.