Following the release of images Manchester Airport that showed a Greater Manchester Police firearms officer striking a man twice as he lay on the ground, Green Party spokesperson on police and domestic safety, Amanda Onwuemene, said,

‘We’re horrified by the video of a man being kicked and stamped on the head whilst lying on the ground by a police officer at Manchester Airport.

“It’s deeply disturbing and there is no situation where it could be in any way justifiable.

“We’re pleased that an investigation is being held and the police must be fully transparent and accountable if they are to restore public confidence after what appears to be a clear abuse of power.’

Carla Denyer, co-leader of the Green Party said: “This is an important day for our country. After 14 wasted years it is a relief that we now have an Energy Secretary who understands the climate crisis and is prepared to take the action we need. 

“But action on renewables will be pointless unless it goes hand in hand with the rapid transition away from North Sea oil and gas. New figures today show more oil and gas being produced, threatening to unleash nearly 12bn tonnes of planet-heating emissions, with the world’s wealthiest countries – such as the US and the UK – leading the way, according to the International Institute for Sustainable Development 

“Energy Secretary Ed Miliband is claiming that his plans will reduce bills but that will only be achieved if the Government invests in improving the energy efficiency of homes too. The significant cut in proposed public investment from £28bn every year to £8.3bn over the course of the parliament means energy will continue to be wasted while bills soar and the poorest households live in cold homes. 

“Labour’s commitment to clean electricity by 2030 is welcome, but without urgent action on transport and home heating we won’t meet our climate targets. That is why the Green Party called for major investment in public transport and a nationwide programme of home insulation and conversion of home heating away from gas and towards electricity.” 

Ellie Chowns, MP for North Herefordshire said: “Israel’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is a war criminal who should be in front of a judge at the Hague, not being applauded by the US Congress.

“Tragically, Prime Minister Netanyahu has strong, political incentives for the war to continue. If we are to bring about the ceasefire that is so desperately needed, we must put in place real, meaningful consequences such as targeted individual sanctions on Prime Minister Netanyahu and other leaders, including of Hamas, for failing to do so, not invite him for speeches and photo opportunities.”

Responding to the news that Labour plan to close the Bibby Stockholm, Green Party Refugee and Migration Spokesperson, Benali Hamdache, said,

“Today’s announcement to close the Bibby Stokholm is very welcome.

“The conditions there are as cruel as they are ineffective.

“It’s entirely inappropriate for people to be held in such vile conditions.

“Seeking asylum is a right that the UK should ensure is undertaken with dignity and appropriate levels of support.

“I congratulate Labour for making this move in their first weeks of administration.

“If Labour now accept the need to close the Bibby Stokholm, we hope they now also take a long hard look at other detention centres like Yarl’s Wood that inspectors have deemed “no longer safe” let alone desirable.”

Responding to the news that President Biden is stepping down and will not run in November’s Presidential elections, Green Party Co-Leader, Carla Denyer, said,

“We wish President Biden well and thank him for his many years of public service.

“This cannot have been an easy decision for him.

“But to take a decision that is personally difficult, but that is in the public interest, is a true sign of leadership.”

She continued, “The foundations of our democracy are under threat and this Presidential election is a pivotal moment.

“All elected representatives must be able to undertake their democratic duties without facing the threats of violence. 

“Equally, showing respect for democratic results is perhaps the most fundamental cornerstone of our democratic foundations. 

“All leaders must now not just abide by our democratic principles but cherish and protect them at every turn.

“It is abundantly clear that President Trump has no interest in this grave responsibility.

“My hope is that the Democratic Party can find a suitable candidate that can take on this responsibility.

“It’s not hyperbole to say that the future of democracy relies on it.”