Lloyd Russell-Moyle Joins Green Party After Labour Suspension

Former Labour MP Lloyd Russell-Moyle has officially joined the Green Party. The announcement was made in November 2025. This move marks a significant political defection in the UK.

His decision follows a contentious suspension from the Labour Party. Russell-Moyle was barred from standing as a candidate in the 2024 general election. This shift highlights growing tensions within Britain’s political left.

The Path from Labour Suspension to Green Membership

Lloyd Russell-Moyle’s suspension occurred in May 2024. It was related to a complaint about his behavior from eight years prior. He strongly denied the allegations at the time.

Labour investigated but took no further action. Despite this, he was blocked from re-standing for his Brighton seat. According to the BBC, this was seen as part of a broader party purge.

The seat was subsequently won by Chris Ward. Ward is a close ally of Labour leader Keir Starmer. This loss effectively ended Russell-Moyle’s Labour career.

A New Political Home with the Greens

Russell-Moyle found a natural fit with the Green Party. He had worked alongside Green MP Caroline Lucas for years. Their shared Brighton constituencies fostered collaboration.

He cited shared values on environment and social justice. The Green Party’s national profile is rising under new co-leader Zack Polanski. This growth made the switch more compelling.

Polanski welcomed Russell-Moyle enthusiastically. He stated the former MP was “abandoned in the interest of power.” This narrative resonates with many disaffected Labour leftists.

Green Party Momentum and National Impact

The Green Party is experiencing unprecedented growth. Membership has surged by nearly 100,000 in weeks. Total membership now exceeds 150,000.

National polling places them second only to Reform UK. This represents a dramatic shift in the political landscape. The party is preparing for the next general election.

Candidate selection for 2029 will begin in summer 2026. This early preparation signals their serious ambitions. They aim to capitalize on current momentum.

Implications for Brighton and UK Politics

Russell-Moyle’s defection impacts local politics significantly. Brighton has long been a progressive battleground. The Greens already hold the Pavilion seat.

This move may strengthen their local presence further. It could encourage other disillusioned Labour members to switch. The political realignment on the left continues.

National politics may also feel the effects. High-profile defections draw media attention and public discourse. They signal shifting allegiances among progressive voters.

This political shift underscores the ongoing realignment within UK progressive politics. Lloyd Russell-Moyle’s move to the Green Party signals a potential new home for the left. His journey reflects broader changes affecting British political loyalties.

Thought you’d like to know

Why was Lloyd Russell-Moyle suspended from Labour?

He was suspended over a complaint about his behavior from eight years ago. Russell-Moyle denied the allegations, calling them politically motivated. Labour’s investigation took no further action.

Did he win his seat in the 2024 general election?

No, he was blocked from standing as the Labour candidate. The seat was won by Chris Ward for Labour. This followed his suspension from the party.

What are the Green Party’s current membership numbers?

The party has grown to over 150,000 members. This follows a surge of nearly 100,000 new joiners in ten weeks. The growth signals rising national influence.

How has the Green Party leadership responded?

Co-leader Zack Polanski gave a warm welcome. He said Russell-Moyle was abandoned by Labour for power and profit. The party sees him as a valuable addition.

What does this mean for the next general election?

The Greens are preparing for the 2029 election already. Candidate selection begins in summer 2026. This defection may boost their credibility and reach.