The Green party is engaged in an internal debate over how aggressively to challenge Andy Burnham in the upcoming Makerfield byelection, with some members fearing an all-out campaign could inadvertently aid Reform UK, while others insist the party must stand its ground.
Internal Divisions
Insiders describe the discussion as “very civilised,” but it highlights a growing rift between Greens who believe informal cooperation with Labour can yield concessions, and newer leftwing activists who argue such an approach achieves little. The final decision on fielding a candidate rests with the local party, though a candidate is expected to be announced on Wednesday.
Resource Allocation
Zack Polanski, leader of the Greens in England and Wales, and his team will determine the resources devoted to the campaign. In February’s Gorton and Denton byelection, the Greens overcame a large Labour majority, mobilising thousands of activists to defeat Reform UK and push Labour into third place. One senior Green noted: “The debate is what the campaign would look like. There is a world of difference between turning up to the hustings with a bit of leafleting and what we saw in Gorton and Denton.”
Constituency Differences
Makerfield, also in Greater Manchester, differs significantly from Gorton and Denton and appears less favourable to the Greens, who finished fifth there in the 2024 general election. This has fuelled arguments for a more restrained approach.
Voices For and Against
Caroline Lucas, the former Green MP, has urged the party not to obstruct Burnham’s return to Westminster, stating on social media: “There are times when it’s more important to put country before party. This is one of them. Burnham’s longstanding commitment to a fairer voting system could transform our democracy and counter the dire threat of a Reform UK government.” However, others disagree vehemently. Jenny Jones, a veteran Green activist and member of the Lords, argued: “We are a political party that owes it to voters to give them the chance to vote Green. Plus, this is a mess of Labour’s own making. They are playing games. We are looking to replace them.”
Strategic Considerations
Some Greens advocate extracting commitments from Burnham, particularly on proportional representation, while not undermining Labour in a byelection seen as crucial to countering Reform UK. Another senior Green remarked: “There are some people who see the big threat to the country being a Reform government, and the idea that there is little sense winning lots of Green seats if Nigel Farage is then in charge.”
Decision-Making
The decision on resource allocation ultimately lies with the party’s executive committee. While Polanski is one of about two dozen members, his view is likely pivotal. One Green source indicated that Burnham has not offered a programme aligned with Green priorities and played a role in an “anti-Green campaign” in Gorton and Denton. “We don’t know which Andy Burnham version will turn up,” they said.
