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Zack Polanski has been accused of promoting "dangerously naive" ideas after proposing that children be taught about "triggers of terrorism" in schools, prompting criticism from counter-extremism experts. The Green Party is facing a backlash over policy documents that suggest reviewing the Counter Terrorism and Security Act 2015 to allow discussions in educational settings about what drives individuals toward terrorism.

The party argues that such conversations could help "reduce the influence of hateful and intolerant ideologies" by addressing the root causes of radicalisation. However, critics say the approach risks legitimising extremist narratives. Concerns have also been raised about a separate policy suggestion stating that "it should not be a crime simply to have sympathy with the aims of an organisation," provided there is no involvement in criminal activity or funding.

These proposals have sparked alarm that individuals could feel emboldened to express support for proscribed organisations such as Hamas, Hezbollah, or National Action.

The issue has gained added attention following arrests linked to demonstrations supporting Palestine Action, which is banned under the Terrorism Act 2000.

The Greens have previously called for the abolition of Prevent, the Government's flagship anti-radicalisation programme. Their current draft policies go further, suggesting changes to counter-terror legislation that could mean expressions of support for certain groups would no longer be criminal offences.

Lord Walney, a former government adviser on extremism, told The Telegraph: "Introducing such ideas into schools would be unacceptable to many voters."

He argued that any attempt to soften the policies would not disguise what he described as a "sinister agenda," adding that even Jeremy Corbyn would not have attempted such measures.

Ghaffar Hussain, a former Prevent officer, said the proposals misunderstood how extremism operates. He argued that effective counter-extremism requires dismantling extremist ideologies in full, including their justifications and political aims, rather than focusing on so-called "triggers" as defined by extremists themselves.

David Taylor, the Labour MP for Hemel Hempstead, said: "The Green Party seems to think terrorists will stop killing innocent people if we just showed them a bit more sympathy and understanding. They are dangerous idiots with loony policies that would put British lives at risk."

In response, a Green Party spokesman said: "The policies are being misrepresented. There is nothing in the party's platform that expressed sympathy for terrorism; the intention is to prevent radicalisation through open discussion."

He also accused opponents of politicising a serious issue in the run-up to elections. This controversy highlights a growing divide over how best to tackle extremism, particularly regarding the role of education and the limits of free expression.

On Wednesday, Zack Polanski said he was reviewing how Green policies are developed. His comments came after increased scrutiny of the party's platform, which has also included proposals such as the legalisation of all drugs.

Party sources indicated that no specific policies had yet been identified for removal.

Mr Polanski confirmed this week that he has agreed to review several party policies that have proven deeply unpopular with the general public, acknowledging the need to ensure the party's platform remains credible and aligned with broader societal expectations.

Express.co.uk has contacted the Greens for further comment.