The Green Party in England and Wales has surpassed 100,000 members for the first time, a near-50 per cent rise since Zack Polanski became leader last month. The party announced the milestone, which puts it on a potential course to overtake the Conservatives in membership numbers.
Just over a week ago, the Greens announced they had overtaken the Liberal Democrats with 83,500 members. If the same momentum continues, party officials say they could become larger than the Conservatives, whose membership is estimated at just above 120,000. However, membership numbers do not necessarily translate into electoral success, as Labour had over 500,000 members under Jeremy Corbyn but lost two general elections.
Recent polls show the Greens at around 11 to 12 per cent, with one poll putting them at 15 per cent, little changed since Polanski took over. Nonetheless, the membership surge highlights Polanski’s ability to draw attention and enthusiasm through interviews, social media and TV appearances.
The Greens’ growth has caused concern among some senior Labour figures, who fear it could cost them votes and seats in next May’s local elections, particularly in London boroughs. Polanski has set out the party’s ambition to replace Labour, saying without action Keir Starmer would “hand this country on a plate” to Reform UK.
Responding to the membership figure, Polanski said: “More than 100,000 people have now joined the Green movement. That’s 100,000 people who believe politics can be honest, fair and hopeful again. When I was elected leader last month, I said that we’re not here to be disappointed with Labour but that we’re here to replace them. I was serious.”
