With Chief Minister Lyndon Trott, centre back, are, left to right, Baroness Pitkeathley, Lord Davies of Coity, Andrew Rosindell MP, Jim Dobbin MP, Michael Fallon MP, John Greenway MP and Lord Kilclooney. (0785364)

GUERNSEY has successfully strengthened its ties with the UK Government, according to the chairman of an All-Party Parliamentary Group concerned with the island.

Labour MP Jim Dobbin even went as far as to say Jersey was lagging behind.

‘So far, the link with Guernsey is extremely positive,’ he said. ‘We are still working with Jersey. It is not as far forward or as strong as this relationship is.’

A group including three MPs and three House of Lords peers visited the island on Friday and Mr Dobbin supported it acting as a go-between for the Channel Islands to encourage greater cooperation.

Treasury Select Committee vice-chairman Michael Fallon MP, who sat on the panel that questioned Chief Minister Lyndon Trott during the global banking crisis inquiry, was also in the island.

‘The visit was a resounding success and I believe the time I spent with Michael Fallon was extremely productive. He was outstandingly receptive,’ said Deputy Trott.

‘I believe that we were able to build on very solid foundations, though I think he was a little surprised at the extent and depth of professional expertise on offer in the island.’