INDEPENDENCE from the UK is on the political agenda. It is one of the issues that will be discussed at a private States members’ seminar on constitutional affairs on Friday.

But Chief Minister Mike Torode said that independence was only one scenario to be considered, not a proposal.

Legal experts from St James’ Chambers will present various possibilities for the Bailiwick, which also include retaining the status quo, federating with Jersey and closer association with Europe.

For Housing minister Dave Jones, the debate comes not a moment too soon.

He said it was clear to him after a letter he sent to all deputies recently about Guernsey’s ties with the UK that a number of them did not understand the island’s constitutional relationship.

‘The letter generated quite a bit of interest, so the external relationship group, which I am a part of, thought it would be a good idea to hold a seminar where States members could get a better understanding of what our current constitutional position is, what role Her Majesty’s Government plays and what the future holds for Guernsey as a small self-governing jurisdiction,’ he said.

He added that the seminar would also highlight the possible implications of the EU exerting its power over the island.

Deputy Jones wants to see a written constitution for Guernsey and a realignment with the UK as far as the Bailiwick’s constitutional position is concerned.

‘It’s pretty much what Gibraltar has done with its constitution. Although I wouldn’t want us to copy theirs, they’ve shown it’s possible.’

Increasing the resources of the external relations group, and possibly creating a ministerial post to handle ‘external affairs’ are other issues on the table.

Deputy Torode said that the seminar was about airing the issues, not making decisions.

‘Really it’s just to talk it through with States members, give them the opportunity to make their own input into how Guernsey stands, how they see our present constitution and how they might or might not see any perceived change,’ he said.

‘The whole thing is a very broad church. It’s to sound out States members, see what views they hold, if they are strong or not – a fishing expedition if you like.’

Politicians from Sark and Alderney will also attend.