Zack Polanski Unveils Green Party Campaign with Affordable Housing Promise
Zack Polanski launched the Green Party campaign in Deptford on a busy Thursday morning. He set out ambitions ahead of the 7 May local elections and reiterated an affordable housing promise.
Launch and attacks on Labour
Polanski used the event to criticise Labour’s record in national and local government. He cited failures on housing and inaction over recent international crises, including Israel’s attack on Lebanon.
He also singled out Housing Secretary Steve Reed. Reed was reported to have hosted a developers’ dinner costing £2,000 a head. Polanski said such events showed cosy links between ministers and industry lobbyists.
Local housing record and Green successes
The speech highlighted Green achievements in delivering homes. Greens in Lewes have built hundreds of council homes for their community.
In Bristol, Green participation in local administration helped break records for new affordable housing last year. Polanski pointed to those examples as proof Greens can get things done.
New MP and cross-party work
Hannah Spencer, the party’s newest MP, attended the launch. Her victory in Gorton and Denton was praised, along with her early action in Parliament.
Spencer established a cross-party group on fuel poverty within her first week. Polanski noted her background as someone who has fixed people’s homes.
Renters and rent control proposals
Polanski stressed the party’s focus on renters. He criticised the high cost and poor condition of many privately rented homes.
Mayoral candidates Zoë Garbett and Liam Shrivastava also spoke at the event. Greens will press for powers for local authorities to introduce rent controls and curb rising rents.
In Wales, Greens led by Anthony Slaughter proposed a one-year rent freeze while a system of rent control is developed. The Senedd already holds such powers, though Welsh Labour has not used them.
Electoral contest: Greens vs Reform
Polanski framed the contest as between the Greens and the Reform Party. He described Reform as backed by wealthy funders and holding opposing priorities.
He urged voters to choose policies that lower bills and redistribute wealth into communities. He positioned the Greens as the defence against more extreme politics.
Recent momentum includes a by-election win in Cliftonville, Margate. Over 400 activists supported Green candidate Rob Yates, who unseated Reform on Kent County Council.
Momentum and call to action
The party reports that membership has tripled. Polling figures have also tripled in recent months.
With 28 days until the 7 May elections, Polanski said he is confident but not complacent. He urged supporters to join action days and help secure more Green wins.
Reported by Filmogaz.com.
