Labour has released a report accusing the Green Party, led by Zack Polanski, of fielding candidates with histories of promoting hateful and dangerous ideologies. The Greens are under scrutiny for their candidate selection process following the recent arrests of two local election contenders over alleged antisemitic social media posts. Additionally, one candidate has been suspended for alleged antisemitic behavior, including using an account name referencing Holocaust victim Anne Frank.

Among the accusations, one candidate is said to have shared a derogatory comment targeting Deputy PM David Lammy and Tory Shadow Foreign Secretary Priti Patel. Another candidate allegedly made a statement suggesting that Jews anticipate hate as they believe they deserve it. Labour’s report highlights 25 candidates who have been embroiled in controversy during the local election campaign.

Steve Reed, the Communities Secretary, emphasized that the issue extends beyond isolated cases, indicating a pattern of hate among candidates selected by Zack Polanski and the Green Party. Reed called on Polanski to expel the implicated candidates from the party. The recent arrests of two Green Party candidates in Lambeth, South London, for inciting racial hatred online have raised further concerns.

In response to the allegations, Zack Polanski condemned the offensive comments, stating that the disciplinary process is underway. Labour’s report also identifies additional instances of alleged antisemitism within the Green Party. Notably, the Greens have withdrawn support for a Newcastle candidate due to revelations of controversial social media posts, including derogatory references to Zionists.

The Green Party has pledged to investigate any instances that contradict its values and has suspended candidates found to have engaged in inappropriate behavior. The party is committed to enhancing its vetting procedures to prevent unsuitable candidates from standing for election.