Newquay Mayor Drew Creek has defected from the Green Party to join the Labour and Co-operatives party, stating that a recent party motion labeling Zionism as racism "crossed a line." The decision comes after the Green Party's conference earlier this month passed a policy motion that described Zionism as an ideology supporting "an ethnonationalist Jewish state in historic Palestine to the exclusion and/or domination of the non-Jewish population."
Creek, who also serves as a councilor for Trenance ward in Cornwall, expressed respect for Green Party members but found the motion untenable. "I can't stand behind that, and I won't pretend otherwise," Creek stated. He noted that he believed the Green Party leadership, including Zack Polanski, had "doubled down" on the stance rather than stepping back.
He emphasized his commitment to local issues in Newquay, saying, "People in Newquay don't want politicians driving division. They want someone who'll fix the roads, protect our coast, fight for local services and bring people together." Creek feels he can best pursue this agenda with the Labour party.
Councillor Kate Ewert, Labour and Co-operative Group Leader on Cornwall Council, welcomed Creek's decision, suggesting it "highlights the serious questions about Zack Polanski's leadership." MP for St Austell and Newquay, Noah Law, praised Creek's "courage" and his steadfastness as an advocate for Newquay.
The Cornwall Green Party acknowledged Creek's "excellent work" and stated that disagreements over the motion's wording should not overshadow the party's broader stance against Israeli actions in Gaza. A spokesperson for the party criticized Labour's position on recognizing genocide and continuing arms exports to Israel, contrasting it with the Green Party's calls for sanctions.
The motion has drawn criticism from various Jewish groups, some Green MPs, and opposition parties. Creek's defection highlights internal divisions within the Green Party regarding the controversial policy.