Labour Ends Green Party Coalitions Over 'Zionism is Racism' Policy
Eleven local authorities affected as Labour demands condemnation of Green Party motion on Israel-Palestine.
Callum Smith
Labour has announced it will withdraw from power-sharing agreements with the Green Party in 11 local authorities.
Labour directed its council groups to secure explicit reassurances: Green counterparts must condemn the national motion. This move directly impacts three councils—Sheffield, Lewes, and Warwick—currently operating in coalition with the Green Party.
Sheffield Labour confirmed the city's Green Party refused to distance itself from the national policy. The Board of Deputies of British Jews condemned the Green Party of England and Wales over the controversial policy.
The Equality and Human Rights Commission contacted the Green Party for more information regarding the motion. Four of the Green Party's five MPs, including former leader Caroline Lucas, publicly criticised the motion.
Green leader Zack Polanski did not attempt to overturn the policy but expressed a desire to amend it. Labour stated that local agreements existed in 18 authorities, with 11 of those failing to meet Labour's established criteria.
The ultimatum from Labour impacts 17 councils in England and one in Wales. Sheffield City Council confirmed that council services will continue unaffected by the change in administration.
Sheffield City Council accused the ultimatum of being 'antisemitism', conflating Zionism with Judaism. The Green Party claims Labour's decision will result in worse outcomes for residents in affected areas.
The Greens' official response stated they would “not take lectures” from a Labour government that supplies arms to Israel.