Starmer Criticizes Greens as ‘Pro-Drug, Pro-Putin’ in PMQs Exchange
During a recent session of Prime Minister’s Questions, Sir Keir Starmer launched a pointed critique against the Green Party, labeling them as “pro-drug” and “pro-Putin.” The Prime Minister’s remarks particularly targeted Zack Polanski, co-leader of the Green Party, for allegedly advocating negotiations with Vladimir Putin regarding nuclear disarmament.
Key Exchange in Parliament
The exchange arose after Green MP Ellie Chowns voiced concerns about the limited attention given to agricultural pollution in the government’s water white paper. In response, Starmer emphasized the difficulties faced by his government, highlighting inherited issues in handling water policies.
Starmer stated, “As someone who stood to lead her party, I wonder what she makes of how her leader is responding to this global uncertainty.” He noted that Polanski’s suggestions included withdrawing from NATO and reconsidering the presence of US military bases in the UK.
Starmer’s Strong Condemnation
The Prime Minister further condemned the Green Party by asserting that their stance is “reckless” and “irresponsible.” He equated their proposals for drug legalization, including heroin and crack cocaine, with their foreign policy positions, implying that the Green Party is “high on drugs, soft on Putin.”
Polanski’s Response
In response to Starmer’s comments, Zack Polanski took to social media, criticizing Labour’s polling performance and their governance. He remarked, “Fair play to whichever special advisor has written Keir a bit of a snarky line.” Polanski challenged Starmer to focus on more pressing issues, referring to the impact of billionaires on the country.
Calls for Drug Policy Reform
Polanski has previously advocated for the legalization of all drugs, arguing for a policy driven by public health experts instead of politicians. He has notably expressed skepticism about reforming NATO, stating that “Donald Trump has so much domination within NATO that I don’t believe it’s possible to reform NATO from within.”
Focus on Nuclear Disarmament
Moreover, Polanski emphasized the importance of engaging in discussions about peace and diplomacy, particularly concerning nuclear disarmament among nuclear-armed nations. He argued, “If we’re not willing to have conversations about peace and diplomacy – then what are we doing here?”
The Green Party has yet to issue an official response to the Prime Minister’s remarks.
