Labour and Green Parties present contrasting manifestos with focus on economic stability, environmental policies, taxation, and social reforms ahead of the upcoming election. Labour pledges no new tax rises and outlines priorities, while the Green Party proposes tax increases on the wealthy, nationalization of key sectors, and initiatives for greener living.
Labour and Green Parties Unveil Manifestos Ahead of Election
The Labour Party is set to release its manifesto on Thursday, detailing a “serious, practical plan for the country” according to leader Sir Keir Starmer. Key pledges include no new tax rises beyond those already announced: imposing VAT on private schools, abolishing non-dom tax status, and closing loopholes in the windfall tax on oil and gas companies. Commitments cover no increase in income tax, national insurance, or VAT rates.
Labour’s manifesto emphasizes six “first steps”: economic stability, renewable energy investment through a state-owned GB Energy, cutting NHS waiting lists, hiring new teachers, tackling anti-social behavior, and establishing a Border Security Command. Additional focuses include early years education, workers’ rights reforms, and continued support for Ukraine. Green policies, while central, have seen reduced financial commitment from £28 billion annually initially proposed.
Meanwhile, the Green Party, led by Carla Denyer and Adrian Ramsay, launched its manifesto at Sussex County Cricket Ground. Dubbed “Real Hope, Real Change,” it proposes higher taxes on wealthier individuals, rent controls, house-building initiatives, and the nationalization of water and energy firms. The Greens call for a four-day work week, a maximum 10:1 pay gap ratio, and a £49 billion investment in home and public building insulation over five years. Taxes on those with assets over £10 million would rise, with capital gains tax aligned with income tax and increased national insurance for high earners.
The Green Party targets four key seats in England and Wales to increase their parliamentary presence. Although they do not expect to form the next government, they aim to influence Labour on addressing poverty and environmental issues.
