Greens launch manifesto with minimum wage pledge

The manifesto includes a commitment to nationalising the railways, a dramatic increase in public spending and a massive investment programme in renewable energy and flood defences.

The Greens also want to create a new tax on those with wealth of more thaan £3 million and introduce a “Robin Hood tax” on banks.

Ms Bennett said: “Austerity has failed and we need a peaceful political revolution to get rid of it.

“Our manifesto is an unashamedly bold plan to create a more equal, more democratic society while healing the planet from the effects of an unstable, unsustainable economy.

“This manifesto presents the Green Party’s genuine alternative to our tired, business-as-usual politics. We desperately need a more equal society and the policies we announce today pave the way towards a brighter, fairer future for all.”

The Greens have identified Sheffield Central and York Central among its target seats for the coming General Election.

The party has faced major criticism over its promise of a “basic income” for all and the manifesto published today says it will only be pursued in the “longer term”.

It includes commitments to decomission Britain’s nuclear deterrent, end the current road-building programme to help subsidise a cut in fares on public transport and a ban on fracking.

The Greens also want to introduce a “carbon quotas” system as part of efforts to limit climate change.

Caroline Lucas, who is defending Brighton Pavilion, the Greens only seat in Parliament, said: “We urgently need real leadership when it comes to tackling climate change - and that’s what our manifesto delivers.

“From ending the scandal of cold homes to investing in a public transport system that puts the public first, our plans will make a positive difference to people’s lives, create new jobs and help protect our environment.

“We have put investing in a greener future at the heart of our manifesto and only Green MPs will demand Parliament delivers change that reflects the scale of the climate problem.”

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