The political landscape in West London has shifted as the Green Party secures its first-ever representative on Hounslow Council following a high-profile defection from Labour.
From Labour to Independent to Green
Councillor Guy Lambert, who represents Brentford West, has officially joined the Green Party after spending approximately ten months as an independent councillor. Lambert was originally elected as a Labour councillor in 2015 and successfully secured re-election in 2022 before his dramatic resignation from the party in January 2025.
The councillor cited his profound dismay at the treatment of local businesses within his ward as the primary reason for his initial departure from Labour. In a revealing statement, Lambert disclosed that he was subsequently expelled from the Labour Party for openly questioning decisions made by the Labour-led Hounslow Council.
A Change in Political Direction
Lambert expressed significant concerns about the current trajectory of Hounslow Labour, stating: "As a councillor I am dedicated to improving Brentford and I believe I have a very strong image amongst those who care." He revealed that after being expelled, he had initially planned to stand as an Independent Socialist in next year's elections but changed course following discussions with Green Party colleagues.
"After discussions with friends in the Green Party and its now more openly left wing policies, I joined the Green Party and I am hoping to stand next year as a Green candidate," Lambert explained. He emphasised his independent instincts and passion for improving the town, stating that ward councillors should primarily focus on local improvement rather than pure politics.
Broader Political Shakes Across London
This defection forms part of a wider pattern of Labour resignations and defections occurring across West London and the broader capital. The Green Party has been building momentum since the election of London Assembly Member Zack Polanski as party leader.
Several London councillors have recently joined the Greens, including veteran councillor Kath Whittam in Southwark, who quit Labour to join them as recently as November 5th. Meanwhile, Hillingdon Labour has lost five councillors within the past four months, now facing competition from the newly formed Hayes Independent Group.
In Hounslow specifically, two sitting Labour councillors have resigned, though they haven't yet declared intentions to join other parties. Brent has also experienced a string of Labour defections following several deselections.
Lambert didn't hold back in his criticism of the current administration, asserting: "I think the current regime needs to be radically changed." While acknowledging that excellent councillors exist within Labour ranks, including some cabinet members and Brentford representatives, he described the leadership and selection process as "deeply flawed."
He expressed hope that Labour might rediscover democracy after the 2026 election, potentially forced to do so by election results. The councillor identified Green Party values of "honesty, fairness, efficient and competent management, empathy, working for you" as principles he had tried to uphold within Hounslow Labour and believes he can now promote these values more effectively across the council.
In response, Councillor Shantanu Rajawat, Leader of the Hounslow Labour Group, defended his party's record, highlighting pride in Labour's work across the borough including social housing projects in Brentford and council partnerships with local organisations. Rajawat stated: "We welcome Councillor Lambert's support for local Labour councillors across the borough. They will continue to work constructively with the administration in order to help and support their residents and to actually get things done."
