THE possibility of the Crown Dependencies becoming independent sovereign states was discussed by the islands’ respective political leaders yesterday.
It was the first time the islands had had an opportunity to talk about the possible move since the release of a report by Jersey’s Constitution Review Group, which said there was nothing to be feared from breaking the 800-year link with the UK.
Chief Minister Lyndon Trott (pictured), who was in Douglas, Isle of Man, with Deputy Chief Minister Bernard Flouquet at the annual Crown Dependencies meeting, said the politicians had had an interesting discussion on the issue. He remained tight-lipped about his thoughts on the matter for now, but he is expected to discuss them in more detail later this week.
‘The timing of the meeting proved particularly useful to allow us to hear from Jersey on its Constitutional Review Report, said the chief minister. ‘I must make it clear that it was stressed by the Jersey contingent that the issue from their perspective is about assessing some of the implications of moving towards a full independent position. The report does not address the desirability or otherwise of making such changes.
‘I’ve read the report thoroughly and there is a lot to note, particularly with regard to cost. It is always useful to consider constitutional papers of this type.’
Jersey’s review group, headed by Bailiff Sir Philip Bailhache, has estimated the independence route at an initial capital outlay of £3m. and annual running costs of £11.3m. The document is a blueprint outlining what would need to be done if Jersey felt forced into independence.
Other issues discussed at yesterday’s meeting included freedom of information, tax information-exchange agreements, International Monetary Fund visits, renewable energy sources and the UK Treasury Select Committee’s review into offshore financial centres, the first of which takes place today.
‘The meeting was a good opportunity to update each other and share experiences on a range of issues important to the islands,’ said Deputy Trott.
Also representing Guernsey at the meeting were HM Procureur Nik van Leuven and States chief executive Mike Brown. Others attending included Isle of Man chief minister Tony Brown and Treasury minister Alan Bell, Jersey Deputy Chief Minister Senator Terry Le Sueur, and Alderney States president Sir Norman Browse and Richard Willmott, chairman of the island’s Policy and Finance Committee.
Next year’s meeting will be hosted by Guernsey.
Article posted on 1st July, 2008 - 2.29pm
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