Adrian began his time in politics in local government, becoming deputy leader of Sandwell Borough Council, secretary of the local Labour Party, and the Co-operative Party's political organiser in the Midlands. He is credited with transforming the finances of the council while chairing the finance committee.

Adrian takes an active interest in Parliamentary issues ranging from the Co-operative movement to animal welfare, from manufacturing to the education of our children. A parliamentary private secretary to several Ministers during the Labour years and an assiduous committee man, Adrian Bailey won the chairmanship of the Business, Innovation and Skills Select Committee in 2010.

He has served on the committee for the past three years. He says his proudest achievements in Parliament have been successfully lobbying the British and US governments for derogation from tariffs on local steel exports; getting an emergency housing transfer for a woman threatened by a violent ex-husband; incorporation of a recommendation into the Children's Act, and his election as Chair of the BIS Select Committee.