Greens are the Future
by Robin Harper MSP, Co-Convenor of the Scottish Green Party
There are now 60 Green councillors elected in local authorities in the UK, seven MSPs in the Scottish Parliament, and 33 MEPs in the European Parliament. There are two Green members of the London Assembly. It is well nigh time for a Green MP.
As a party, we’re growing fast. The Green challenge to “politics as usual” is resonating with voters all over the country. In last year’s European elections, we came a close second in some seats 17% of the vote. With such advances, a Green MP comes closer every year.
When people elect Greens they like what they get. Our MEPs have led calls for tough new rules to ban some of the most toxic ingredients from everyday use in household products and have forced action on animal welfare standards and the treatment of asylum seekers. Our hardworking councillors stand out in communities for their commitment and tenacity, and for their work in preventing poor developments and in promoting community participation in decisionmaking.
Our MSPs have won victories on identity cards and on energy efficiency. They have forced a climate change inquiry in the Scottish Parliament and pressured the Scottish Executive with amendments and Bills on areas as diverse as nature conservation, civil partnerships, GM crops and public transport.
Unlike some other Scottish political parties, the Greens are not in the red financially, and that’s even without the big business funding of the other parties. We are determined to build on this sustainable growth over the coming years.
A Green vote is most certainly not a wasted vote. A wasted vote is a vote for something you don’t trust and don’t believe in. Vote against waste. Vote Green.