A new political party is launching today with an initial roster of four candidates ahead of Guernsey’s election in June.

Forward Guernsey says it will be adopting in its entirety the manifesto recently published by Future Guernsey.

That manifesto focuses on housing, improved Government efficiency, changing corporate tax rates, and tax breaks for under 30s.

Forward Guernsey’s four candidates who will be standing behind that manifesto are current Deputy Gavin St Pier, and first time candidates Rhona Humphreys, Ryan Courtney, and Tom Rylatt.

They’re being supported by party secretary Mark Le Page.

He’s hoping other candidates will join the four already cited as Forward Guernsey candidates.

“We have come together to form a party because we think this is the best way to offer manifesto clarity and accountability to voters,” he said.

“Ultimately, it offers the opportunity to deliver more effective government the other side of the election: States Deputies will need to define themselves with reference to the suite of policies we are adopting.

“Forward Guernsey is offering a new, highly professional and organised approach to politics in Guernsey.

“Although I am not able to be a candidate myself at this time, I am pleased to be able to support those that are as the party’s secretary. Twenty-three years of public service has convinced me that having deputies as part of a team is the only way to deliver the change that Guernsey wants.”

Ms Humphreys is Forward Guernsey’s Treasurer as well as being a candidate for the party.

“Future Guernsey is prohibited from endorsing or supporting any candidates, but we can endorse and support their manifesto,” she said.

“It’s a bold, ambitious vision and comprehensive plan for the next term of government. It’s a well-developed suite of policies built by Guernsey people for Guernsey people to address the priorities identified through research and talking to the community. Nothing like this has ever been done before in Guernsey. It’s daunting and exciting to be doing something so different, but more than that, it’s hopeful and positive. That’s why I am in.”