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Green Party aims to prevent vulnerability to extremists after controversial policy vote
Überblick
The Green Party of England and Wales is reviewing its structures to ensure it is not vulnerable to extremists after members approved a motion describing Zionism as racism. Westminster leader Ellie Chowns called it a significant and damaging policy passed by a small fraction of members, while former leader Caroline Lucas highlighted concerns over entryism. Jewish groups criticised the motion, and calls have been made for leader Zack Polanski to address the crisis following a recent by-election defeat.
Wichtige Punkte
- Green Party members voted for a conference motion that claimed Zionism was racism and backed a single democratic Palestinian state.
- Westminster leader Ellie Chowns stated she wants to ensure the party is not vulnerable to capture by extremists and racists.
- Chowns noted the policy was passed by a vote of just 0.4% of members, indicating structural flaws in the policy-making process.
- Former leader Caroline Lucas expressed concern that party structures were not protecting it from entryism and emphasized the need to keep the party welcoming for Jewish people.
- Jewish groups, including the Board of Deputies of British Jews and the Jewish Leadership Council, strongly criticised the motion.
- Leader Zack Polanski stated he would not have voted for the motion and intends to remain as leader despite a recent by-election defeat in Holborn and St Pancras.