Survey: 70% think Brexit will tighten Jersey's immigration controls

Sunday 10 September 2017

The results of the Government of Jersey's survey on Brexit suggested that 70% of respondents thought Brexit would give Jersey tighter control over immigration, and the size of its population.

The survey was completed by over 800 islanders earlier this year as part of the Department for External Relations' 'Let's Talk Brexit' campaign.

When asked about the opportunities presented by Brexit, immigration controls came out on top, closely followed by increased incentives to expand trade agreements.

58% of respondents said they either agreed or strongly agreed with the statement that Brexit would instigate "greater opportunities to access new markets and develop relationships in emerging economies" as well as 54% who thought it would improve Jersey's trade with the UK.

Pictured: The results of the Brexit Residents' Survey reveal that heightened immigration controls and improved trade agreements are perceived by the respondents as the opportunities presented by Brexit.

In terms of the negative impacts of Brexit, the survey's respondents were most concerned with it increasing the cost of living in Jersey, with 71% expressing this as a worry. 45% of respondents agreed the societal divisions in the island were of concern post-Brexit.

The Minister for External Relations, Senator Sir Philip Bailhache, said “I am delighted to be able to share the results of the Brexit Residents’ Survey. I would like to thank all the islanders who have provided us with feedback, either by completing the survey, online via social media, or by contacting a member of the Brexit team.

Pictured: Minister for External Relations, Senator Sir Philip Bailhache says he is grateful to all the respondents of the Brexit survey.

"As the Brexit negotiations progress, the Government of Jersey will continue to engage islanders through 'Let’s Talk Brexit'. Alongside the publication of the report, we will be producing an accessible online presentation and sharing the results across social media platforms.

"Drawing on public feedback we will also be producing a regular electronic newsletter – ensuring that islanders are provided with the timeliest and most relevant Brexit information.”