The Equality and Human Rights Commission (EHRC) has written to the Green Party of England and Wales to assess the practical implications of its recently adopted “Zionism is racism” motion. The watchdog said it recognised “many Jewish people will be feeling vulnerable following the party’s motion”, which was passed at the Greens’ conference earlier this month.
Complaints under the Equality Act
In its letter, the EHRC said it had received complaints alleging unlawful activity under the Equality Act 2010, including concerns that Jewish people could face discrimination because of their beliefs following the adoption of the motion. The commission has asked the Green Party for “more information” to assess the policy’s practical implications and potential impact.
In a statement on Thursday, an EHRC spokesperson said: “We have written to the Green Party of England and Wales about its recently adopted ‘Zionism is racism’ motion to ask for more information and assess its practical implications and potential impact.”
Watchdog’s statement
“We have received complaints alleging unlawful activity under the Equality Act 2010, including concerns that Jewish people could face discrimination because of their beliefs following the adoption of the motion,” the spokesperson added. “As with every complaint we receive, we will assess the information provided carefully and following that consideration take action where appropriate.”
The EHRC also urged all political parties to consider their responsibilities not to discriminate against people based on protected characteristics, such as race or religion, through the policies and practices they adopt. “In the case of the Green Party motion, compliance with the Equality Act is likely to hinge on the practical effects of the motion,” the spokesperson said.
Labour’s move and Green Party response
The watchdog’s letter comes after Labour announced it would end its power-sharing agreements with the Green Party on local councils if they do not reject the new policy.
The Green Party said it “will not discriminate against or exclude people for holding Zionist views”. A party spokesperson said: “The motion passed at conference sets out a political position. It has no impact on membership conditions or internal disciplinary processes.”
“We are a democratic party with a strong culture of open debate and disagreement. Members do not have to agree with every party policy, and differences of opinion are a normal and healthy aspect of party democracy,” the spokesperson added. “The party’s comprehensive antisemitism guidance, which forms part of our framework of ethics, remains unchanged. We remain committed to tackling antisemitism and ensuring Jewish members feel welcome and respected.”
