The Green Party is facing criticism over its long-standing support for Britain paying reparations for its role in the trans-Atlantic slave trade. Under leader Zack Polanski, the party has reaffirmed commitments made at its 2020 conference and in its 2024 general election manifesto to establish a parliamentary commission on 'reparatory justice'. Estimates of potential compensation have ranged from £205 billion to nearly £19 trillion, according to campaigners and academics.

Senior Green figures have also called on King Charles to issue a formal apology for slavery and have backed the Church of England’s £100 million fund addressing its historical links to the slave trade. Party activists have further raised the issue of reparations in other contexts, including support for Palestinians, amid debate over Britain’s historic role in the Middle East.

The policy has drawn sharp criticism from Conservative and Reform politicians, who describe it as 'virtue-signalling nonsense' and argue the focus should be on current economic challenges. The controversy comes as the Greens experience rising poll ratings and increased membership, positioning themselves as a stronger left-wing challenger to Labour ahead of upcoming electoral contests.