BBC South’s political editor Peter Henley interviewed Zack Polanski, the leader of the Green Party, during the autumn party conferences. They discussed key issues facing the south of England and the party’s plans to address them. Polanski expressed his hope that the Green Party will soon have its first MP or take control of a council, and that this can be achieved by focusing on lowering people’s bills and providing proper funding for the National Health Service and education.
One of the key issues discussed was the nationalization of the water industry. Polanski argued that the water companies, such as Southern Water and Thames Water, are not worth the millions it would take to buy them out, citing the £70bn debt accumulated by Thames Water since its privatization. He suggested that nationalization would not be an experiment, but rather a correction of the failed experiment of privatization.
Another topic discussed was the party’s plan to install solar panels on every building in the country. Polanski acknowledged that this would require a significant investment in British manufacturing, and that the solar panels should be produced in the public sector. He emphasized the need to create British jobs and invest in renewable energy, rather than spending money on nuclear weapons, war, and polluting companies.
The conversation also touched on the issue of Labour councillors leaving the party, particularly over the Gaza conflict. Polanski revealed that he has been in talks with some of these councillors, who are disillusioned with the Labour Party’s national policies, such as the two-child benefit cap and disability benefits cuts. He welcomed the possibility of these councillors joining the Green Party, citing the party’s commitment to sticking to its promises and serving local communities.
Overall, the interview highlighted the Green Party’s focus on environmental issues, social justice, and community-centered policies. Polanski presented a vision for a party that prioritizes people and the planet over profit, and that is committed to delivering change and serving local communities. With 21 defections from the Labour Party to the Greens this year alone, Polanski is optimistic that the Green Party will continue to grow and gain support in the south of England.