Former Green leader warns party of hard‑left takeover risk

Adrian Ramsay, who led the Green Party before stepping down, told The Guardian that the party must overhaul its internal democracy to prevent a hard‑left takeover. He warned that a “small number” of new members are using “divisive” tactics to shape the party’s agenda and suggested some of them “might be more at home” in Your Party or the Socialist Workers party.

Ramsay also criticised the party’s handling of the controversy surrounding a “Zionism is racism” motion that was passed at a recent Green Party conference. He said the episode highlighted the need for stronger democratic safeguards within the organisation.

The former leader’s comments come as the Greens grapple with internal disputes over policy direction and membership composition, raising questions about how the party will manage ideological diversity while maintaining cohesion.

Why it matters

The remarks signal internal tensions that could affect the Green Party’s policy stance and electoral appeal.

Key details

Location

United Kingdom · Europe

Reported by

The Guardian

First reported

1 Nov 2026, 20:05 IST

Key names

Adrian Ramsay, Party, Socialist Workers, Green

Section

Environment

Sources

This is an independent summary. Read the full, original reporting from the publisher:

• The GuardianGreen party must avoid being taken over by hard left, says former leader 1 Nov, 20:05

Read the full story at The Guardian ↗

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