Jessie Hoskin and Robin Layfield say they have found their political home with the Greens, writes Susan Fenton.
Helen Elliott-Boult also joined the Green Party this summer. Robin and Helen both serve on Rodborough Parish Council (Helen as vice-chair); they continue to be Independent in their parish council roles as the council is non-party-political.
This is not the first time that former Labour or Independent politicians have switched to the Greens locally. Helen Fenton, who was elected in 2021 as a Labour district councillor for Chalford, became an Independent the following year, joined the Green Party in November 2023, and was re-elected to Stroud District Council as a Green in April 2024.
Jessie Hoskin said: “The Greens have been a consistent voice of hope during this new government, supporting policies that really improve people’s lives: a tax on the super-rich, public ownership, and more funding for the NHS – commonsense stuff.
“And the culture at a local level is really different – the local Greens are inclusive, democratic and welcoming.”
Robin Layfield said: “The Green Party has the been only party with the honesty and moral clarity to challenge the Government’s position on Palestine, as well as challenging the government’s increasing use of legislation to control dissent and civil protest.
“I’m also very impressed with the electoral juggernaut that is now leading Stroud District Council. Local people want local people who speak on local issues. Greens are doing that; they are very visible and hard-working.”
Helen Elliott-Boult said: “I believe we need to take a strong stance to support those who are less privileged as I believe in a fair and equitable society that represents our rich and diverse culture. The Greens are now the only party that have shown real commitment to replacing the antiquated systems that are currently dividing our country, and to advancing in a positive way.”
Adrian Oldman, coordinator of Stroud District Green Party, said: “We are delighted to welcome our new members to the party. The rightwards direction of travel of Starmer’s Labour Party proved incompatible with their beliefs in social and environmental justice and progressive politics, and we are pleased that they have now found their tribe in the Green Party.”
