Polanski calls for rent freeze and Palestine Action status review

Green Party leader Zack Polanski has called for a three-year "emergency brake" on private rent increases, proposing that rents should not rise above the Consumer Price Index, wage growth, or 2%, whichever figure is lowest. This policy aims to provide renters with financial stability and allow wages to catch up with housing costs. Polanski stated that the Green Party's electoral achievements encourage the Labour Party to pursue a more progressive policy agenda.

Holborn and St Pancras By-election Campaign

Mr Polanski is currently campaigning in the Holborn and St Pancras parliamentary by-election, aiming to win the seat for the Green Party. He told attendees at the Green conference in Brighton that voting Green influences Labour's political direction. He cited the government's delay in approving new oil and gas drilling as evidence that the Greens' electoral threat prompts political shifts. Polanski asserted that electing more Green representatives between general elections can change government policy.

Palestine Action Status

In addition to housing policy, Mr Polanski addressed the status of Palestine Action. He called for the organisation's designation as a banned terrorist organisation to be revoked. He described the arrests of individuals for holding protest signs as a "stain and a shame on this country's reputation."

Following his speech, Mr Polanski was expected to leave the conference to focus on his campaign in the north London constituency. Green Party members were encouraged to join him in canvassing for the by-election.