Endorsed on stage by his close friend and newly elected Green MP Hannah Spencer, Polanski opened his acceptance speech by highlighting his 20-year connection to the North London constituency. Having lived and worked across Camden and Holborn since moving to the capital, he shared personal anecdotes ranging from community nights at the iconic Black Cap pub to living in a Mornington Crescent flat rumbling with the vibrations of the tube line.
However, Polanski quickly shifted focus to the severe economic hardships facing local residents. “I love this place. But I also know times are tough here,” he stated. “My story of constant moving around flats is such a common story for Londoners – and I know many people here are really struggling right now.” Citing soaring housing costs, unaffordable utility bills, damp and mouldy living conditions, and persistent anti-social crime, Polanski pledged to be a fierce advocate for the community: “The people of Holborn and St Pancras want better for this place – and I’ll fight for you.”
Green Momentum Taking the Fight to Labour
The contest for Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s former seat is shaping up to be a direct battle between the Greens and Labour. Polanski emphasized the party’s exponential growth in the borough, noting that the Greens surged from just one local councillor to 10 in the recent May elections.
This local surge mirrors a national breakthrough. In February 2026, Hannah Spencer made history as the first Green MP elected in the North of England. According to Polanski, historic wins across Gorton, Denton, Hackney, and Lewisham have already forced the Labour government to amend some of their most unpopular policies. Polanski warned voters that electing another Labour MP would signal to the Labour-run council, Mayor, and Government that they can take voters for granted. “Voting Green sends a clear signal – we want better for our communities,” he argued.
Core Campaign Pledges:
- Housing Justice: Pushing for strict rent controls, the construction of new council homes, and fair protections for leaseholders.
- Utility Reform: Halting private water companies from dumping raw sewage into local rivers while driving down bills.
- Community Safety: Creating secure, well-funded neighborhoods where every resident feels protected and supported.
“Labour Running Scared” Over Climate Action
Polanski wasted no time launching a direct attack on Labour’s environmental record. Responding to media reports indicating that Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham is delaying a decision regarding drilling in the Jackdaw gas field until after the byelection, Polanski accused the ruling party of political dishonesty.
“Labour are running scared, and have started the campaign with an act of dishonesty and betrayal,” Polanski fired back. “They are clearly going to allow new drilling in the North Sea but want to keep it under wraps during a byelection where they know the public want tougher action on climate. Labour talks about change, but this is change for the worse.”
Four Weeks to Make History
With less than a month left before voters head to the polls on October 8, the Green campaign is entering high gear. Acknowledging that the party is starting from second place, Polanski called for an immediate nationwide mobilization of volunteers to secure their sixth parliamentary seat and send shockwaves through Westminster.
“Between now and then I’ll be on the doorsteps day in, day out, listening to people about the issues that matter to them,” Polanski concluded. “There are just four weeks to make history.”
