The Green Party is currently engaged in an internal debate regarding the level of challenge it should mount against Andy Burnham in the upcoming Makerfield byelection. While insiders describe the discussions as “exceptionally civilised,” the party remains divided between those who wish to launch an all-out campaign and those concerned that doing so could allow Reform UK to win.
A Divide Over Strategy and Cooperation
The internal friction centers on whether the party should seek concessions from Labour through informal cooperation or pursue a more aggressive electoral strategy. Some members, including newer leftwing activists, argue that cooperation achieves little.
Conversely, some party members believe it is in their best interests to extract commitments from Burnham, specifically regarding proportional representation, which he supports. These members argue against scuppering Labour’s chances in a contest seen as central to pushing back against Reform UK.
Conflicting Visions of Party Identity
Caroline Lucas, the former Green MP and the party’s first MP, has urged the party not to overly impede Burnham’s return to Westminster. On social media, Lucas stated, “There are times when it’s more key to put country before party. This is one of them.”
Lucas suggested that Burnham’s commitment to a fairer voting system could transform democracy and counter the “dire threat of a Reform UK government.”
However, veteran activist and House of Lords member Jenny Jones disagrees, asserting that the party is “not a pressure group” to be stood down. Jones argued that the party owes it to voters to provide a Green option, adding, “this is a mess of Labour’s own making.”
The Makerfield Landscape
While Makerfield is located in Greater Manchester like Gorton and Denton, it is viewed as a different and less favorable environment for the Greens. In the 2024 general election, the party finished fifth in the constituency.
One senior Green noted a “world of difference” between a minimal presence at hustings and the resource-heavy mobilization seen in Gorton and Denton. Decisions on whether to “throw everything” at the campaign would rest with the national party.
Potential Next Steps
A candidate for the byelection, which is expected to take place next month, appears set to be announced on Wednesday. The final decision on whether to field a candidate rests with the local party.
Following that, the party’s executive committee will determine the allocation of resources. Zack Polanski, the leader of the Greens in England and Wales, is likely to play a crucial role in this decision, despite being one of approximately two dozen committee members.
The party’s approach may be further influenced by lingering tensions; one source claimed Burnham played a role in a “pretty awful” anti-Green campaign in Gorton and Denton and has not yet offered a programme aligned with Green priorities.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the Makerfield byelection expected to happen?
The byelection is expected to take place next month.
Who are the key figures in the Green Party’s internal debate?
Key figures include Zack Polanski (Leader of the Greens in England and Wales), Caroline Lucas (former Green MP), and Jenny Jones (veteran activist and member of the Lords).
What is the primary concern for those opposing an all-out campaign?
Some members are worried that a strong Green challenge could allow Reform UK to win the seat.
Do you believe political parties should prioritize strategic cooperation to block specific opponents, or should they always offer a full range of choices to voters?
