Zack Polanski, leader of the Green Party, is currently facing a formal investigation regarding alleged unpaid council tax on a narrowboat where he lived in East London. The investigation follows complaints submitted to the Greater London Authority’s (GLA) monitoring officer by both Labour and Conservative parties, who have raised concerns about whether the narrowboat was Polanski’s primary residence.
Polanski has admitted that he may have underpaid council tax after initially stating that the houseboat was not his main home because he only used it occasionally. He also mentioned that he rented a room elsewhere where the council tax was included in the rent.
Local neighbours and businesses have reported that the 72ft narrowboat was Polanski’s primary home. An advertisement for the sale of the boat included a note from Polanski’s partner indicating they were moving into a house, which confirmed their long-term residency on the narrowboat.
The GLA monitoring officer, who is responsible for overseeing the ethical conduct of assembly members, has confirmed that a formal complaint has been lodged. An initial assessment will be conducted to determine whether a full investigation is necessary. If Polanski is found to have breached standards, potential sanctions could be imposed.
A Green Party spokesperson stated that Polanski denies any wrongdoing and is cooperating fully with the investigation process. The party confirmed that Polanski made an unintentional mistake and has since taken steps to pay any council tax owed.
Waltham Forest Council is currently reviewing the situation to establish all relevant details.
This investigation adds to recent controversies involving Polanski, including false claims that he worked for the Ministry of Justice and that he was a spokesperson for the Red Cross. He also faced criticism after admitting he did not vote in the latest local elections, despite indications that he had cast a postal ballot.
Originally published by UKNIP.
