Polanski said there were two policing provisions, Operation Ford and Operation Bridger, which provided security and safety support for councillors and MPs, respectively.
“I am in the unusual situation as a London Assembly member and leader of a party where I haven’t fallen under either,” he added.
“The Home Office since the local elections have reviewed that and now I fall under Operation Ford. I welcome the movement on that and that’s provided me with some extra safety and some extra steps.”
It is also understood the Green Party does pay for some private security for its leader.
He has previously spoken about “heightened intrusion and safety risk” as well as “antisemitic and homophobic abuse” since becoming leader – with two arrests being carried out by police.
A Home Office spokesperson said: “No politician should be facing the threat of violence, abuse, or harassment – they must be able to go about their vital work safely and freely.
“The government keeps security provisions for elected representatives under regular review.”
Representatives are encouraged “to liaise with their local police force if they have concerns about their safety”, the spokesperson said.
The Green Party have been contacted for comment.
Polanski’s remarks come amid a growing chorus of voices over whether politicians are being provided with enough security.
On Tuesday Andy Burnham said a serious review of MPs’ security was needed after politics had “darkened” over the past decade.
“It’s easy to blame social media, but it feels like it’s having some impact in just building that kind of toxicity that’s around the political debate,” he said.
Source:
www.bbc.co.uk