Green Left's questions to
candidates - Answers below
1. A Campaigning Party vs Elections?
Within a flawed electoral system, are we focusing on winning elections, one by one seat, above being a Campaigning Party within the mass movement needed to fight capitalism and transform society before the climate change emergency becomes irreversible? Are we paying lip service to the warning from the brave climate change activists especially the youth who recognise time is running out?
2. An accountable Party?
How can the Green Party be an effective campaigning political party, with transparent internal democracy and accountability, supporting local party campaigns with devolved resources? Do we need delegate conferences to ensure policy is properly discussed at local level before conference decides?
3. A party that understands working-class communities?
Many people (with some progress) still see the green movement and subsequently the GPEW as being well meaning but not relevant to the everyday struggles of working people and working-class communities. How can we challenge that idea?
4. Austerity and reversing public service cuts
After over 10 years of cruel Tory austerity which has trashed public services for millions, we must restore those essential services which we all rely on. Not only the NHS and social care but all the local government services like environmental health, trading standards, pollution control, libraries, public toilets, parks etc and the Green Party has not focused on this sufficiently for several years. Do you agree?
5. The Movement for Green Jobs and a Green Socialist future
What do you know of the Trade Union backed Campaign Against Climate Change, Lucas Plan, The Million Green Jobs campaign and the Greener Jobs Alliance of trade unions? How would you work with these campaigns and ensure all parts of the party are engaging with these groups? Do understand and support what Just Transition means?
6. Are you an eco-socialist?
What does eco-socialism mean to you? What links do you see between climate change and the need for social, economic and democratic change?
7. Support native and oppressed peoples
Greens need to expand our world solidarity by working to liberate millions of indigenous peoples in the Americas, Asia: Kurdistan, Middle East, Tibet, and many parts of Africa etc. Internationalism is still too weak in Green culture. How would you improve this in the GPEW?
8.Minority rights
Do you oppose the colonialist oppression of minorities such as Kashmiris, the Uighurs and Tibetans in China, and support the Palestinian-led global campaign for Boycott, Divestment and Sanctions (BDS)? Palestine solidarity groups world-wide have opposed the so-called 'IHRA definition of antisemitism' as an attack on Palestinian rights. Do you support or oppose this definition?
9. Making campaigning for PR a Green Party priority
It’s clear the electoral system is holding back Green Party advance at local and parliamentary elections. How can we campaign to convince members of the Labour Party, Trade Unions and Labour MPs to support this left democratic change to bring elections in line with other parts of the UK? Do you see this as a major priority for the Green Party in the next period?
10. Oppose Nuclear Power
Green Left is supporting a motion to the forthcoming GPEW Conference that calls on the Green Party to demand the government abandons the Hinkley Point nuclear project and plans for the follow-up Sizewell C nuclear project, including the regulated asset-based model and any further development of the hazardous and expensive nuclear power programme. The Green Party should also calls for all existing nuclear power plants to be shut down. No power sourced from nuclear should be imported - only renewable. Will you support this motion?
Tom Pashby
1.A Campaigning Party vs Elections?
We are the electoral wing of the environmental movement and we should be chasing every vote possible. If we don't try to win every vote, the other parties will become even more complacent on environmental and social justice.
2. An accountable Party?
I believe we are already a very democratic and transparent party in terms of the processes we have decided to use for policy development and political decision making. I am keen to engage with the process that Reform of Conference Voting Working Group is coordinating to improve our decision making.
3. A party that understands working-class communities?
We need to be clearer about our politics as the environmentalist, Left alternative to the other parties, and particularly to the left of Labour. We have great policies for social justice like Universal Basic Income, but we need to do more to empower working class people in our party.
4. Austerity and reversing public service cuts
I do agree. I think Natalie Bennett did a great job of positioning us as the anti-austerity party. We should reclaim that ground, especially given that Labour is shifting back to the centre and a new period of austerity is being rumoured. We need reinvestment in public services.
5. The Movement for Green Jobs and a Green Socialist future
I can’t really answer this question in 50 words, but I am familiar with most of those campaigns. I’m a member of Unite the Union and I believe that action on the climate emergency which doesn’t involve a just transition would be against the values of the party.
6. Are you an eco-socialist?
I am an eco-socialist and an anti-capitalist. I do appreciate the links between climate chaos and the need for a fully sustainable, just society. Given how entrenched Conservative, neoliberal interests are in our economic, democratic and cultural institutions, I’m not sure that eco-socialism goes far enough.
7. Support native and oppressed peoples
I would certainly want to expand our internationalism and work closely with our International Coordinators, the Federation of Young European Greens, the European Green Party and Global Greens. I also think we need to pay more attention to supporting groups like Travellers and Roma here in England and Wales.
8. Minority rights
I oppose all the forms of oppression posed in the first question and I support BDS. While I am aware a lot of people believe the IHRA definition of antisemitism is not perfect, I support it as the best working definition of antisemitism.
9. Making campaigning for PR a Green Party priority
Electoral reform should be a major priority for the Green Party as long as we have to operate within this outdated First-Past-The-Post system. I would want to work cross-party to pressure the Labour and Conservative parties into supporting proportional representation. I would work with the Trade Union Liaison Officer to influence the unions.
10. Oppose Nuclear Power
I would support a motion which opposed the development of fission-based nuclear power generation, due to the socially irresponsible nature of nuclear waste management, it’s cost to the taxpayer, and its role as a supplier to the nuclear weapons industry. I don’t know if it’s technically possible to specify which electricity generation sources supply the electricity transferred across international interconnectors.
Andrea Cary Fuller
1. A Campaigning Party vs Elections?
Until we get PR we need to pull back from standing in all seats in G.E's apart and focus on those where we won/kept our deposit. We need to campaign on PR as well as establish a women's cross-party annual climate change event, to promote the Lucas Green New Deal.
2. An accountable Party?
I support Conference Reform: one-day regional events (priorities set by regions themselves) culminating in Conference with on-line and conference voting. We need to provide training in drafting motions and how policy is made
Unison's Ethical Care Charter is a campaign I am promoting through GP women with elected Councillors.
3. A party that understands working-class communities?
Address the issues that affect everyone: Housing, Income and Health.
1. Housing - having a place to call home - address the housing need
2. Income - Living Wage Foundation Living Wage & UBI.
3. Keep our NHS public - see: http://movie.thegreatnhsheist.com/ & campaigning on Air Pollution
& work with the Unions on Campaigns
4. Austerity and reversing public service cuts
Absolutely yes. I agree with People v PFI's campaign to nationalise the special purpose vehicles within PFI deals: "This would enable the NHS, local authorities and government departments to directly pay the sub-contractors who actually provide the services, saving an estimated £1.4bn every year by taking out the middle man".
5. The Movement for Green Jobs and a Green Socialist future
A Just Transition - protecting workers now and future generations whilst we switch from fossil fuels to green energy/economy. Lucas Green New Deal is the only one which will achieve halt on climate change - Labour's million jobs plan is a greenwash of this. Greener jobs alliance favoured Labour plan in GE2019!
6. Are you an eco-socialist?
Yes as an eco-socialist I stand for climate justice, human rights and social justice and support devolved resources for community-driven/localised economies as opposed to the current global conglomeration of society. UBI & The Future Generations Bill are key. I support Economies for the Common Good and The Circular Economy principles.
7. Support native and oppressed peoples
We need a stronger network of discussion forums and international zoom events to link up the work with fellow Greens in other countries and highlight those campaigns through collaborative working alongside organisations like Amnesty International through initiatives like the People's Summit (organised by the UN) & the C40 Mayors.
8.Minority rights
Yes and Yes. I was a co-proposer of Les Levidow's policy motion opposing the IHRA 'definition' of antisemitism and reaffirming BDS (Boycotts Divestment Sanctions against Israel), which aims to end international support for Israel’s regime of settler colonialism and apartheid. The phrase ‘apartheid Israel’ is anti-racist – not antisemitic.
9. Making campaigning for PR a Green Party priority
A Campaign to persuade Labour/Conservatives as possible to support PR through elected Green Councillors using Make Votes Matter support/materials. Campaigning at local Council level to get support for a PR motion there first, then pressurising MP's. My protest at the 2019 General Election "without P.R. [proportional representation] this is pointless."
10. Oppose Nuclear Power
Absolutely Yes and I would like to see the Party highlight and promote the work that the Local Green Party Members like Green Party Women Emma Bateman, Rachel Smith-Lyte/other Green Councillors & ex-MEP Catherine Rowett, have done on campaigning against Sizewell C as part of the Stop Sizewell C campaign.
Cleo Lake
1.A Campaigning Party vs Elections?
I think we need to work collaboratively with grass roots campaigns and youth movements to further lobby for and champion the causes.
2. An accountable Party?
Regional opinion is important there will always be overarching themes and campaigns that everyone can align with regardless of geography however local knowledge is important and should be valued. The party must not continue to be perceived by its members as London, Brighton or Bristol centric. I am particularly interested in out reach work into Wales. There needs more of a joined up approach between parties and councillor groups across England and Wales.
3. A party that understands working-class communities?
It is imperative that the party is led by people with lived experience within demographics that we wish to more effectively communicate with. If people can’t see themselves reflected in the leadership then our best efforts will be perceived as non sincere. We have good policies for working class people but until they are championed by obviously working class people and people of colour with credibility - things are unlikely to change.
4. Austerity and reversing public service cuts
I do not agree. On a local level as a Green Party elected councillor, I know how hard Green Party Councillors have worked within the limited remit of local government to challenge austerity. In my perception we are the main opposition to austerity and that should continue. We must do more on a national level to be advocating against austerity and the need to reinstate adequate funding to the areas you mention as well as others including youth services. It is embarrassing that the UK cannot provide adequate services in 2020.
5. The Movement for Green Jobs and a Green Socialist future
If we as a membership party stand for socialism like we say we do, standing with those that struggle, fight for life, liberty and wellbeing and support work that is good for people and planet, then it is not possible to seek to take control of the Governmental system of the UK unless we work in coalition with the interests of Trade Unions, setting collaborative clear lines with regards to wellbeing and environmental non negotiables, then we stand a very good chance of delivering change. We need to find out the number of trade union members we already have in the Green Party and build from there. We must seek on genuine terms to stand side by side and meet and go to the unions, we cannot wait for them to come to us. It must be prioritised.
6. Are you an eco-socialist?
It is having the understanding that most of the world is in poverty and cannot thrive, nature thrives but is under attack from ecocide.
Understanding history and Britain’s role in the Industrial Revolution, and all that came with it on an international and humanity level has in terms of racial, social and environmental issues, led us to the door of no return. We cannot return to what we knew, things need to change if people locally and globally have any chance of avoiding poverty and in order to save the planet.
7. Support native and oppressed peoples
Is internationalism too weak in Green culture? That seems a bizarre concept to me that I definitely do not agree with it as it runs against my own experience. It would be my intention to work closely with the international officer/s to extend our reach. I have very solid links in Trinidad and Ghana so I see myself personally as very international.
I would focus on how do we link locally, regionally, nationally. I am encouraged by some of the might demonstrated in Scotland towards major fundamental changes that we need to see and adopt such as land reform. Wales too has lots of potential to set the pace on change.
8.Minority rights
It can be very difficult to understand a situation that you perceive does not affect you directly or because your do not have the full context of the matter much of which may be ancient in root. As deputy leader it would be important to understand clearly the concerns from a UK Jewish perspective so working with Jewish Greens would be a priority and then I believe it would be membership driven in consultation with Jewish Greens to adopt the relevant policies and terminology at conference by members.
9. Making campaigning for PR a Green Party priority
It should be yes. Alongside a significant programme to demystify local political systems to make it far more accessible for people to engage with.
10. Oppose Nuclear Power
Yes I will support the motion. Nuclear power is potentially dangerous and harmful. At a National level it also raises alarms in relation to strategic inter governmental resilience. It isn't needed. We must switch to absolute renewables and tailor our consumption in line with this.
Nick Humberstone
With regards to making conference more democratic and more involving, there are definitely things we can do better. Democracy isn’t something we can get right and then be done, we need to constantly be working on how to make the process better, especially when it comes to accessibility. I’m open to hearing people’s ideas on a more decentralised policy making process.
We also need to talk about the right issues. We have great policies when it comes to social justice, but are mostly known for caring about the environment. We need to talk about social policies more, like Universal Basic income and a 4 day week because those issues are right in front of people. The environment is also important, but can feel like a less immediate issue when you’re struggling to earn enough to make it to the end of the week.
1. A Campaigning Party vs Elections?
Within a flawed electoral system, are we focusing on winning elections, one by one seat, above being a Campaigning Party within the mass movement needed to fight capitalism and transform society before the climate change emergency becomes irreversible? Are we paying lip service to the warning from the brave climate change activists especially the youth who recognise time is running out?
2. An accountable Party?
How can the Green Party be an effective campaigning political party, with transparent internal democracy and accountability, supporting local party campaigns with devolved resources? Do we need delegate conferences to ensure policy is properly discussed at local level before conference decides?
3. A party that understands working-class communities?
Many people (with some progress) still see the green movement and subsequently the GPEW as being well meaning but not relevant to the everyday struggles of working people and working-class communities. How can we challenge that idea?
4. Austerity and reversing public service cuts
After over 10 years of cruel Tory austerity which has trashed public services for millions, we must restore those essential services which we all rely on. Not only the NHS and social care but all the local government services like environmental health, trading standards, pollution control, libraries, public toilets, parks etc and the Green Party has not focused on this sufficiently for several years. Do you agree?
5. The Movement for Green Jobs and a Green Socialist future
What do you know of the Trade Union backed Campaign Against Climate Change, Lucas Plan, The Million Green Jobs campaign and the Greener Jobs Alliance of trade unions? How would you work with these campaigns and ensure all parts of the party are engaging with these groups? Do understand and support what Just Transition means?
6. Are you an eco-socialist?
What does eco-socialism mean to you? What links do you see between climate change and the need for social, economic and democratic change?
7. Support native and oppressed peoples
Greens need to expand our world solidarity by working to liberate millions of indigenous peoples in the Americas, Asia: Kurdistan, Middle East, Tibet, and many parts of Africa etc. Internationalism is still too weak in Green culture. How would you improve this in the GPEW?
8.Minority rights
Do you oppose the colonialist oppression of minorities such as Kashmiris, the Uighurs and Tibetans in China, and support the Palestinian-led global campaign for Boycott, Divestment and Sanctions (BDS)? Palestine solidarity groups world-wide have opposed the so-called 'IHRA definition of antisemitism' as an attack on Palestinian rights. Do you support or oppose this definition?
9. Making campaigning for PR a Green Party priority
It’s clear the electoral system is holding back Green Party advance at local and parliamentary elections. How can we campaign to convince members of the Labour Party, Trade Unions and Labour MPs to support this left democratic change to bring elections in line with other parts of the UK? Do you see this as a major priority for the Green Party in the next period?
10. Oppose Nuclear Power
Green Left is supporting a motion to the forthcoming GPEW Conference that calls on the Green Party to demand the government abandons the Hinkley Point nuclear project and plans for the follow-up Sizewell C nuclear project, including the regulated asset-based model and any further development of the hazardous and expensive nuclear power programme. The Green Party should also calls for all existing nuclear power plants to be shut down. No power sourced from nuclear should be imported - only renewable. Will you support this motion?
Tom Pashby
1.A Campaigning Party vs Elections?
We are the electoral wing of the environmental movement and we should be chasing every vote possible. If we don't try to win every vote, the other parties will become even more complacent on environmental and social justice.
2. An accountable Party?
I believe we are already a very democratic and transparent party in terms of the processes we have decided to use for policy development and political decision making. I am keen to engage with the process that Reform of Conference Voting Working Group is coordinating to improve our decision making.
3. A party that understands working-class communities?
We need to be clearer about our politics as the environmentalist, Left alternative to the other parties, and particularly to the left of Labour. We have great policies for social justice like Universal Basic Income, but we need to do more to empower working class people in our party.
4. Austerity and reversing public service cuts
I do agree. I think Natalie Bennett did a great job of positioning us as the anti-austerity party. We should reclaim that ground, especially given that Labour is shifting back to the centre and a new period of austerity is being rumoured. We need reinvestment in public services.
5. The Movement for Green Jobs and a Green Socialist future
I can’t really answer this question in 50 words, but I am familiar with most of those campaigns. I’m a member of Unite the Union and I believe that action on the climate emergency which doesn’t involve a just transition would be against the values of the party.
6. Are you an eco-socialist?
I am an eco-socialist and an anti-capitalist. I do appreciate the links between climate chaos and the need for a fully sustainable, just society. Given how entrenched Conservative, neoliberal interests are in our economic, democratic and cultural institutions, I’m not sure that eco-socialism goes far enough.
7. Support native and oppressed peoples
I would certainly want to expand our internationalism and work closely with our International Coordinators, the Federation of Young European Greens, the European Green Party and Global Greens. I also think we need to pay more attention to supporting groups like Travellers and Roma here in England and Wales.
8. Minority rights
I oppose all the forms of oppression posed in the first question and I support BDS. While I am aware a lot of people believe the IHRA definition of antisemitism is not perfect, I support it as the best working definition of antisemitism.
9. Making campaigning for PR a Green Party priority
Electoral reform should be a major priority for the Green Party as long as we have to operate within this outdated First-Past-The-Post system. I would want to work cross-party to pressure the Labour and Conservative parties into supporting proportional representation. I would work with the Trade Union Liaison Officer to influence the unions.
10. Oppose Nuclear Power
I would support a motion which opposed the development of fission-based nuclear power generation, due to the socially irresponsible nature of nuclear waste management, it’s cost to the taxpayer, and its role as a supplier to the nuclear weapons industry. I don’t know if it’s technically possible to specify which electricity generation sources supply the electricity transferred across international interconnectors.
Andrea Cary Fuller
1. A Campaigning Party vs Elections?
Until we get PR we need to pull back from standing in all seats in G.E's apart and focus on those where we won/kept our deposit. We need to campaign on PR as well as establish a women's cross-party annual climate change event, to promote the Lucas Green New Deal.
2. An accountable Party?
I support Conference Reform: one-day regional events (priorities set by regions themselves) culminating in Conference with on-line and conference voting. We need to provide training in drafting motions and how policy is made
Unison's Ethical Care Charter is a campaign I am promoting through GP women with elected Councillors.
3. A party that understands working-class communities?
Address the issues that affect everyone: Housing, Income and Health.
1. Housing - having a place to call home - address the housing need
2. Income - Living Wage Foundation Living Wage & UBI.
3. Keep our NHS public - see: http://movie.thegreatnhsheist.com/ & campaigning on Air Pollution
& work with the Unions on Campaigns
4. Austerity and reversing public service cuts
Absolutely yes. I agree with People v PFI's campaign to nationalise the special purpose vehicles within PFI deals: "This would enable the NHS, local authorities and government departments to directly pay the sub-contractors who actually provide the services, saving an estimated £1.4bn every year by taking out the middle man".
5. The Movement for Green Jobs and a Green Socialist future
A Just Transition - protecting workers now and future generations whilst we switch from fossil fuels to green energy/economy. Lucas Green New Deal is the only one which will achieve halt on climate change - Labour's million jobs plan is a greenwash of this. Greener jobs alliance favoured Labour plan in GE2019!
6. Are you an eco-socialist?
Yes as an eco-socialist I stand for climate justice, human rights and social justice and support devolved resources for community-driven/localised economies as opposed to the current global conglomeration of society. UBI & The Future Generations Bill are key. I support Economies for the Common Good and The Circular Economy principles.
7. Support native and oppressed peoples
We need a stronger network of discussion forums and international zoom events to link up the work with fellow Greens in other countries and highlight those campaigns through collaborative working alongside organisations like Amnesty International through initiatives like the People's Summit (organised by the UN) & the C40 Mayors.
8.Minority rights
Yes and Yes. I was a co-proposer of Les Levidow's policy motion opposing the IHRA 'definition' of antisemitism and reaffirming BDS (Boycotts Divestment Sanctions against Israel), which aims to end international support for Israel’s regime of settler colonialism and apartheid. The phrase ‘apartheid Israel’ is anti-racist – not antisemitic.
9. Making campaigning for PR a Green Party priority
A Campaign to persuade Labour/Conservatives as possible to support PR through elected Green Councillors using Make Votes Matter support/materials. Campaigning at local Council level to get support for a PR motion there first, then pressurising MP's. My protest at the 2019 General Election "without P.R. [proportional representation] this is pointless."
10. Oppose Nuclear Power
Absolutely Yes and I would like to see the Party highlight and promote the work that the Local Green Party Members like Green Party Women Emma Bateman, Rachel Smith-Lyte/other Green Councillors & ex-MEP Catherine Rowett, have done on campaigning against Sizewell C as part of the Stop Sizewell C campaign.
Cleo Lake
1.A Campaigning Party vs Elections?
I think we need to work collaboratively with grass roots campaigns and youth movements to further lobby for and champion the causes.
2. An accountable Party?
Regional opinion is important there will always be overarching themes and campaigns that everyone can align with regardless of geography however local knowledge is important and should be valued. The party must not continue to be perceived by its members as London, Brighton or Bristol centric. I am particularly interested in out reach work into Wales. There needs more of a joined up approach between parties and councillor groups across England and Wales.
3. A party that understands working-class communities?
It is imperative that the party is led by people with lived experience within demographics that we wish to more effectively communicate with. If people can’t see themselves reflected in the leadership then our best efforts will be perceived as non sincere. We have good policies for working class people but until they are championed by obviously working class people and people of colour with credibility - things are unlikely to change.
4. Austerity and reversing public service cuts
I do not agree. On a local level as a Green Party elected councillor, I know how hard Green Party Councillors have worked within the limited remit of local government to challenge austerity. In my perception we are the main opposition to austerity and that should continue. We must do more on a national level to be advocating against austerity and the need to reinstate adequate funding to the areas you mention as well as others including youth services. It is embarrassing that the UK cannot provide adequate services in 2020.
5. The Movement for Green Jobs and a Green Socialist future
If we as a membership party stand for socialism like we say we do, standing with those that struggle, fight for life, liberty and wellbeing and support work that is good for people and planet, then it is not possible to seek to take control of the Governmental system of the UK unless we work in coalition with the interests of Trade Unions, setting collaborative clear lines with regards to wellbeing and environmental non negotiables, then we stand a very good chance of delivering change. We need to find out the number of trade union members we already have in the Green Party and build from there. We must seek on genuine terms to stand side by side and meet and go to the unions, we cannot wait for them to come to us. It must be prioritised.
6. Are you an eco-socialist?
It is having the understanding that most of the world is in poverty and cannot thrive, nature thrives but is under attack from ecocide.
Understanding history and Britain’s role in the Industrial Revolution, and all that came with it on an international and humanity level has in terms of racial, social and environmental issues, led us to the door of no return. We cannot return to what we knew, things need to change if people locally and globally have any chance of avoiding poverty and in order to save the planet.
7. Support native and oppressed peoples
Is internationalism too weak in Green culture? That seems a bizarre concept to me that I definitely do not agree with it as it runs against my own experience. It would be my intention to work closely with the international officer/s to extend our reach. I have very solid links in Trinidad and Ghana so I see myself personally as very international.
I would focus on how do we link locally, regionally, nationally. I am encouraged by some of the might demonstrated in Scotland towards major fundamental changes that we need to see and adopt such as land reform. Wales too has lots of potential to set the pace on change.
8.Minority rights
It can be very difficult to understand a situation that you perceive does not affect you directly or because your do not have the full context of the matter much of which may be ancient in root. As deputy leader it would be important to understand clearly the concerns from a UK Jewish perspective so working with Jewish Greens would be a priority and then I believe it would be membership driven in consultation with Jewish Greens to adopt the relevant policies and terminology at conference by members.
9. Making campaigning for PR a Green Party priority
It should be yes. Alongside a significant programme to demystify local political systems to make it far more accessible for people to engage with.
10. Oppose Nuclear Power
Yes I will support the motion. Nuclear power is potentially dangerous and harmful. At a National level it also raises alarms in relation to strategic inter governmental resilience. It isn't needed. We must switch to absolute renewables and tailor our consumption in line with this.
Nick Humberstone
1. A Campaigning Party vs
Elections?
Within a flawed electoral system,
are we focusing on winning elections, one by one seat? Above being a
Campaigning Party within the mass movement needed to fight capitalism and
transform society before the climate change emergency becomes irreversible? Are
we paying lip service to the warning from the brave climate change activists especially
the youth who recognise time is running out?
We’re part of a wider Green
movement, including organisations like Friends Of The Earth, Basic Income UK,
and Mermaids. Within that movement we are the political part, we are the only
group that are trying to create a Green society by getting elected and then
putting through policy to achieve that. That is our duty and responsibility
within the Green movement. Therefore our focus needs to be on elections. We can
of course support the campaigns of other organisations, but our focus should be
on getting elected.
2. An accountable Party?
How can the Green Party be an
effective campaigning political party, with transparent internal democracy and
accountability, supporting local party campaigns with devolved resources? Do we
need delegate conferences to ensure policy is properly discussed at local level
before conference decides?
In terms of accountability, I’d be in
favour of having better procedures by which members can speak/get in touch with
GPEx and the leadership team. That could be monthly zoom calls for example. I’d
want to be speaking to members often to make sure I am representing their views
accurately, and also to make sure my arguments in the media are formed from a
range of perspectives and experiences.
With regards to making conference more democratic and more involving, there are definitely things we can do better. Democracy isn’t something we can get right and then be done, we need to constantly be working on how to make the process better, especially when it comes to accessibility. I’m open to hearing people’s ideas on a more decentralised policy making process.
3. A party that understands
working-class communities?
Many people (with some progress)
still see the green movement and subsequently the GPEW as being well meaning
but not relevant to the everyday struggles of working people and working-class
communities. How can we challenge that idea?
There’s two things we need to do.
We need to use language better, and make sure we’re using language that
connects with people. I’ve felt barriers in getting involved in politics
because I don’t understand a lot of the words we throw around, and I want to
make sure those barriers don’t exist for other people.
We also need to talk about the right issues. We have great policies when it comes to social justice, but are mostly known for caring about the environment. We need to talk about social policies more, like Universal Basic income and a 4 day week because those issues are right in front of people. The environment is also important, but can feel like a less immediate issue when you’re struggling to earn enough to make it to the end of the week.
4. Austerity and reversing public
service cuts
After over 10 years of cruel Tory
austerity which has trashed public services for millions, we must restore those
essential services which we all rely on. Not only the NHS and social care but
all the local government services like environmental health, trading standards,
pollution control, libraries, public toilets, parks etc and the Green Party has
not focused on this sufficiently for several years. Do you agree?
It makes sense for some things to
be owned and run by the people for the people, especially when they can easily
be monopolised, and have profit made a priority over purpose/benefit to
society. I think we should be talking more about public services, especially as
it’s an issue that often has significant impact to people locally. I umbrella
it under the need to talk about social justice more than we currently do, to
show voters we are a political party that can deliver a solution for
everything, not just climate change.
5. The Movement for Green Jobs and
a Green Socialist future
What do you know of the Trade Union
backed Campaign Against Climate Change, Lucas Plan, The Million Green Jobs
campaign and the Greener Jobs Alliance of trade unions? How would you work with
these campaigns and ensure all parts of the party are engaging with these
groups? Do understand and support what Just Transition means?
I don’t know much about those
campaigns, which I guess highlights the fact that we haven’t been supporting
them enough. I understand a Just Transition to be about how we should move
society towards an economy that works for everyone, (including the environment).
I support this.
6. Are you an eco-socialist?
I don’t have a personal definition
of eco-socialism, and probably wouldn’t identify myself as eco-socialist. This
doesn’t mean I am not an eco-socialist, but rather that I don’t think
identifying myself as one would be helpful in creating the Green Party’s vision
of a society that works for everyone. I don’t think that social justice and
environmental justice are the same thing, but there is certainly a lot of
overlap and positive change for both of those areas at once in our policies.
For example, if talking about the 4-day working week, I would say it is a great
policy on delivering social justice, however it also happens to have an impact
on the environment, because of 1 day less commuting.
7. Support native and oppressed
peoples
Greens need to expand our world
solidarity by working to liberate millions of indigenous peoples in the
Americas, Asia: Kurdistan, Middle East, Tibet, and many parts of Africa etc.
Internationalism is still too weak in Green culture. How would you improve this
in the GPEW?
I think this is an important issue,
and I would support campaigns being led by other organisations about liberating
indigenous people. Our internationalism is quite weak and I’d like to see how
we can work with Greens around the world more effectively. My focus however is
on getting more Greens elected, and I think for a lot of people in the UK,
international issues can seem distant and less important than the social
justice issues on their doorstep. We should be supporting campaigns on this
issue, but our election focus should prioritise our policies that will motivate
people to support us in elections.
8.Minority rights
Do you oppose the colonialist
oppression of minorities such as Kashmiris, the Uighurs and Tibetans in China,
and support the Palestinian-led global campaign for Boycott, Divestment and
Sanctions (BDS)? Palestine solidarity groups world-wide have opposed the
so-called 'IHRA definition of antisemitism' as an attack on Palestinian rights.
Do you support or oppose this definition?
I oppose all forms of oppression.
From my current understanding of BDS, I support it. From my current
understanding of the IHRA definition of antisemitism, I support it. This is an
issue, I haven’t gotten involved with or researched as much as other areas, so
I remain open-minded to hearing other perspectives.
9. Making campaigning for PR a Green
Party priority
It’s clear the electoral system is
holding back Green Party advance at local and parliamentary elections. How can
we campaign to convince members of the Labour Party, Trade Unions and Labour
MPs to support this left democratic change to bring elections in line with
other parts of the UK? Do you see this as a major priority for the Green Party
in the next period?
Electoral reform, particularly
proportional representation would make a huge difference to us, but when
talking about it I always stress the democratic importance, because that’s what
really matters to me. If 1% of the population vote for UKIP then they should
have 1% of the seats, no matter how much I may disagree with them on issues of
immigration. I think focusing on elections more than we have in the past as a
party, and delivering electoral success, is how we will deliver PR. The Labour
membership want it, as do some Labour MPs, but we need to build our success in
elections for Labour to reach the point where they have no choice but to
support PR alongside us. PR is a major priority, and one of the most
transformational policies for the UK, however I think we need to focus on our
general electoral success (in a difficult system) rather than campaigning
separately for PR, because I think our increasing our presence in Parliament is
ultimately what will make PR a reality.
10. Oppose Nuclear Power
Green Left is supporting a motion
to the forthcoming GPEW Conference that calls on the Green Party to demand the
government abandons the Hinkley Point nuclear project and plans for the
follow-up Sizewell C nuclear project, including the regulated asset-based model
and any further development of the hazardous and expensive nuclear power
programme. The Green Party should also calls for all existing nuclear power
plants to be shut down. No power sourced from nuclear should be imported - only
renewable. Will you support this motion?
Probably. I approach every policy
with an open mind and try to understand the views for and against any issue. From
my current understanding of nuclear power generally, I would probably support
the motion, however it’s difficult to say without knowing the specifics of the
motion.
Amelia Womack
1. A Campaigning Party vs Elections?
I’m a campaigner at my heart, and
it’s vital for us that we keep making change happen by winning grassroots
campaigns. The best way to institutionalise change is to ensure that we have
Greens elected to embed progressive policy. Campaigning can dovetail into
target to win, and I am proud we have introduced Action Network to help build
those links.
2. An accountable Party?
Our membership has grown
substantially during my time as deputy leader which has brought about massive
changes to our systems and resources. We now need to invest to replace our
ageing computer systems and to update resources we can provide to local
parties. We also need to remove the barriers for people to attend conference,
which is currently coming to a members vote to reflect our grassroots values.
3. A party that understands
working-class communities?
As co-chair of the People’s
Assembly, and a proud member of a trade union, I have worked hard to integrate
the party with like minded bodies aiming to support workers movements. I have
campaigned constantly against austerity which has hit communities, whose
constant fight for fairness we must support.
4. Austerity and reversing public
service cuts
Absolutely, and this is central to
my politics as Green Party Deputy Leader and as Co-Chair of the People’s
Assembly. I grew up in Newport and have lived in Liverpool and London, so I
have seen how austerity has ravaged communities and local government across
Wales and England. We need a new deal for the people which reverses these cuts,
and where the wealthy get taxed and tax loopholes get closed, to reverse the
widening gaps in our society.
5. The Movement for Green Jobs and
a Green Socialist future
I support all of these campaigns,
and I am proud of all our members who have been involved in their creation. We
now need to put Just Transition at the heart of our messaging and campaigns for
a Green New Deal.
6. Are you an eco-socialist?
I have consistently and proudly
stated that I am an ecosocialist. As a qualified Environmental Biologist, I
want to ensure that we stop the climate and ecological emergency, but we must
ensure that social justice, and equality are intertwined with these solutions.
Solutions to the climate emergency won’t come from our broken capitalist system
led by greed and inequality.
7. Support native and oppressed
peoples
The only solution to our climate
emergency will be an international one. We need to liberate indigenous people
and also we need to take responsibility for the damage we have done, and are
still doing, around the world. We need to end the UK’s involvement in the arms
trade and investments in global fossil fuel projects, protect aid budgets,
campaign for free movement of people and make the UK a place of refuge.
8.Minority rights
I have worked with Palestine
Solidarity Campaign and have spoken at their events to communicate the Green
Party’s position. We need to challenge the statement on Boycott, Divestment and
Sanctions in last year's Queens Speech. It’s important that we protect Jewish
people and their rights as well as criticising leaders who are destroying
Palestine.
9. Making campaigning for PR a
Green Party priority
I have campaigned consistently for
proportional representation, votes for 16 and 17 years old and electoral
reform. This is always an area where Greens should be campaigning, not just
because it holds back the party but also because our undemocratic system is
disenfranchising so many people. Wales has made steps in the right direction,
and shows a progressive path for Labour and the unions, and England needs to
catch up.
10. Oppose Nuclear Power
I will support this motion. I
believe that investment in nuclear power takes funding away from green energy
projects, and projects to reduce energy consumption. We are increasingly moving
towards a system where fossil fuels are playing a decreasing role which is
great. We also need to ensure the huge clean up bills for aged nuclear power
infrastructure is paid for from the pockets of the wealthy investors who have
profited from nuclear.
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