In a revealing interview on BBC Radio 4's Today programme, Rachel Millward, the deputy leader of the Green Party, was left flustered and unable to confirm details of her party's controversial plans to reduce motorway speed limits to 55 miles per hour. When pressed by presenter Anna Foster about the policy, Millward admitted she was not aware of the proposals, which have been exclusively reported by the Daily Mail as part of leader Zack Polanski's so-called 'war on motorists'.
Policy Details and Internal Confusion
The Green Party's transport strategy, as outlined in documents, includes slashing speed limits on major roads outside built-up areas from 70mph to 55mph to improve fuel efficiency and safety. Additionally, the party aims to introduce 20mph limits in all residential zones, raise car taxes incrementally, and cut parking spaces to discourage driving. A particularly contentious element involves requiring drivers to retake stricter and more comprehensive driving tests every five years, a move that could strain an already overburdened system.
Interview Fallout and Political Backtracking
During the interview, Millward initially stated, 'I am not aware of that policy,' suggesting it might be something 'chosen by members' through conference processes. When Foster questioned why the deputy leader was uninformed about key policies, Millward attempted to backtrack, claiming it was 'not one of our leading policies at this point' and not a focus for the current election campaign. This exchange exposed apparent disarray within the party's leadership regarding their own agenda.
Broader Transport Agenda and Criticism
Zack Polanski has previously advocated for making driving 'slower, more expensive, and, in many cases, impossible,' with policies targeting travel demand management to reduce motorised traffic. The Greens' official stance asserts that driving is a privilege, not a right, and includes plans to charge for parking outside homes and steadily reduce parking availability. Conservative transport spokesman Richard Holden condemned these proposals as 'out of touch' and a 'green light for madness,' reflecting broader public concern.
Context and Previous Controversies
Millward, a councillor in East Sussex, has faced scrutiny for promoting welcoming refugees while opposing local asylum seeker accommodations, citing strain on services. Elected as co-deputy leader last year, she has urged party unity behind Polanski, whose past includes claims about hypnotic breast enlargement and advocacy for legalising all drugs, including heroin and crack. The Greens have also proposed disestablishing the Church of England, adding to their radical policy portfolio.
This incident underscores the challenges the Green Party faces in communicating and implementing its ambitious and often divisive policies, particularly as internal knowledge gaps come to light in high-profile media appearances.
