Green Party Candidate Sarah Wakefield Outlines Policies for Makerfield By-Election on June 18

Sarah Wakefield, the Green Party's candidate for the upcoming Makerfield by-election, stated that her party offers "better solutions for the people of Makerfield". Speaking ahead of the 18 June poll, Wakefield acknowledged widespread "anger and frustration" within the current political landscape, proposing that the Greens could instead deliver "hope and joy".

Wakefield, who replaced the party's initial candidate, Chris Kennedy, noted that constituents feel "frustrated, unheard and frankly annoyed" by national discourse. Locally, she cited "issues of flooding in Abram and Platt Bridge, there's green belt which is being built on and there's community assets which are crumbling and people are very upset and rightly so." She contended that national conversations frequently overlook the needs of those on the ground.

Addressing immigration, Wakefield stated the Green Party's policy welcomes any individual who can contribute, arguing that the nation's "diversity" is a key strength. On the perception that the party has moved away from its environmental roots, she affirmed that ecological values remain "at the heart of everything we do," asserting, "You cannot have justice for the planet and nature without putting it hand in hand with social justice."

Wakefield also elaborated on the party's proposal to end Class A drug prohibition, advocating for a system of legal regulation. She framed this as a "public health first approach" designed to ensure individuals struggling with addiction receive appropriate professional support within a regulated framework. The by-election was triggered by the resignation of the constituency's MP, Josh Simons.