Greens committed to supporting everyone ‘regardless of their background, nationality or faith’
None of the Green members of West Sussex County Council voted in favour of their Party’s motion that declared Zionism a form of racism, councillors have been told.
Jay Mercer, leader of the council, addressed the issue following a question from Rob Venn (Ref, Northbrook) who said he had had ‘various communications’ from residents on the matter.
The council’s administration is made up of Liberal Democrat, Labour and Independent Alliance councillors, along with seven Green councillors, two of whom serve on the cabinet.
Mr Venn asked what assurances the leader could give to the Jewish community ‘that the council will stand firmly against anti-Semitism and protect Jewish residents’ rights to feel safe, respected and free from discrimination’.
Mr Mercer stressed that none of the Green councillors on West Sussex County Council had voted in favour of the motion – those who were present at the party conference voted against it.
He added that Ian Davey (Green, Goring), cabinet member for public health and well-being, had written to the national party leadership on behalf of the group, asking them to ‘urgently review the policy’.
Mr Mercer said: “The Greens in the council wish to reassure residents across West Sussex that they are committed, alongside their alliance colleagues, to representing, supporting and speaking up for everybody in our communities, regardless of their background, nationality or faith.
“They hope that the whole council shares this commitment – which I’m sure we all do. In the light of that absolute commitment from our colleagues, I have no concerns at all about continuing to work with them in the joint administration.”
As well as writing to the party leadership, Mr Davey asked Mr Mercer what else could be done to work with local residents and reassure them. Addressing Mr Venn, the leader said: “Any suggestions you might have, I’m sure will be positively received.”