One of the more unexpected success stories coming from this island has been the runaway reaction to The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society. From total obscurity, it is poised to become a Hollywood movie.

For islanders, it is difficult to comprehend what an impact the book has had in America – and elsewhere – and not just because it has been so highly critically acclaimed. It has been a sensation there and anyone who has anything to do with Guernsey is closely quizzed about the book when they are in the States.

The significant point, however, is whether Fox decides to film its production here or elsewhere.

Firstly, it is disturbing that there is any question about it. This is a work of excellence and Guernsey promotes itself as a centre of excellence yet is sitting back, happy that The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society might be shot in the Isle of Man, its competitor.

Secondly, Fox’s creative producer has said the reason they might go elsewhere is because Guernsey is too expensive. Not in terms of being here but because the UK offers tax incentives which make it more attractive.

If this island, a naturally low-tax jurisdiction, cannot do better than the UK then there is something grievously wrong.

But perhaps more than that, what is it saying about a community that prided itself on its entrepreneurial spirit and on being in the first division of financial services centres?

The promotional benefits of having the film of the book shot here are so potentially huge that the passive response to Fox’s concerns about incentives are genuinely distressing.

Government here is rightly reluctant to be interventionist but this is no time to remain supine. There are reputational issues at stake, too. If what is already tipped to be a blockbuster is filmed elsewhere, how does the island explain why?

‘We couldn’t be bothered to be creative. My colleagues and I felt it was just too much bother,’ the chief minister will be able to say.

‘And that’s why Ebenezer Le Page will be shot in Jersey,’ he might add.