Jersey's adaptability will be its post-Brexit strength

Wednesday 29 June 2016

The Island’s Chief Minister has moved to assure the public that Jersey remains in a strong position to face the challenges that will arise in the wake of the Brexit vote.

Senator Ian Gorst told the States Assembly yesterday: "Jersey has a track record of adapting to an ever changing world. In times of uncertainty people want stability, and provided we remain confident in ourselves, there will also be new opportunities."

While the decision has resulted in considerable economic and political volatility in the UK, Senator Gorst said the Island remains relatively stable and will benefit from the newly opened offices in London and Brussels, promoting its interests.

“Against this backdrop, Jersey remains in a strong position financially and economically, and we are well placed to weather the effects of current events,” he said. “This is a result of long term strategic planning in respect of public finances, economic planning, and our targeted engagement in the lead up to the Referendum.

“The foresight this Assembly showed in supporting the establishment of an External Relations Ministry, in addition to setting up the Jersey London office, the Channel Islands Brussels Office, and the strengthening of our French office, have all proven their worth and will be of significant benefit in the months and years ahead.”

He reiterated to States Members that Jersey will seek to replicate its current Protocol 3 provisions in any new legislation arising from the “divorce settlement” between the UK and the EU.

"The report published by the Minister for External Relations (Monday) outlines what the UK’s decision means for Jersey and how we will protect our interests," Mr Gorst said. "It sets out what the Government will seek to negotiate to replace Jersey’s relationship with the EU. The conclusion is clear: Jersey’s interests will be best served by replicating the current arrangements under Jersey’s Protocol 3 relationship with the EU, in particular tariff-free trade in goods. 

"The UK remains our principal partner: free trade in goods and services, the free movement of capital and the free movement of people between the Crown Dependencies and the UK will continue."

The States has been in regular contact with the UK government, he added.

“On Friday morning I spoke to Lord Faulks to emphasise the importance of fully engaging Jersey in the forthcoming negotiations, and the UK Prime Minister responded when he addressed the House of Commons yesterday making clear that Jersey and the other islands would be consulted.

“This comes about as a result of the close engagement between us and the UK Government in the months and years leading up to the Referendum. We have sought to ensure that the position and interests of the Island are understood, and we will seek to ensure they are protected.”

The Chief Minister said that in the short-term, some Islanders may even see benefits from the current uncertainty, suggesting that export sectors like tourism and fisheries will benefit from the declining value of the pound.

Senator Gorst also took the opportunity address EU nationals living and working in Jersey.

“I would like to take this opportunity to send a strong message to these communities. To the long-standing French community, the Portuguese-Madeiran community, our Polish and Romanian residents, and other communities from around the world. You are as valued and recognised today as you always were. Please do not be concerned – we want you to stay.”

Responding to a question from Deputy Mezec on whether independence will be sought, Mr Gorst said that was not currently on the agenda.

He said Jersey is seeking no change in its relation with the EU and “likewise we are seeking no change in our relationship with the British Crown”.

He said he believed that relationship has served Jersey well for over 800 years.