The 3×3-metre exhibition stand, listed as costing £16,500 in a Conservative Party conference brochure, is intended to highlight Jersey’s constitutional position, its relationship with the UK, its links with the EU and how they will be impacted by Brexit, and the island’s economy.
“The underlying message is that we are a strong Island community with a diverse range of interests. As a longstanding member of the British family that makes a real contribution to the UK’s economic success, helping to promote and defend the interests of Jersey – particularly in the context of Brexit – is both the UK’s duty (on behalf of the Crown) and in its interest,” a Department for External Relations spokesperson told Express.
Pictured: Officials from Jersey will attend all conferences for UK’s the four largest political parties – the Conservative Party, Labour, Liberal Democrats and the SNP.
It’s not the first time the island has exhibited at a party conference. In 2013, Ministers and officials held a stand and fringe event at the Conservative conference, while in 2014 they held also held a stand and event at the Labour conference too.
2015 and 2016 saw the States of Jersey scale back their presence due to a “need to make savings at the time” and the beginning of the UK government’s new five-year term, but this year the States were particularly eager to attend following the UK’s decision to withdraw from the European Union, which could have a large knock-on effect for the Channel Islands.
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“We believe it is a key, high-profile opportunity to highlight Jersey’s interests with regard to Brexit and the need for these to be taken into account, as well as to build relations with new Parliamentarians,” a spokesperson added.
Sir Philip Bailhache, Minister for External Relations, had been due to represent the island at both the Liberal Democrat and Conservative Party conferences, but was unfortunately taken ill earlier this month. He is yet to return to his Ministerial role.
Two members of the Council of Ministers have been able to participate, however – Home Affairs Minister Kristina Moore at the Labour Party conference and Chief Minister Senator Ian Gorst at the Conservative Party Conference.
Jersey’s party conference calendar:
- Liberal Democrats, 16-19 September, Bournemouth
Two officials from the Government of Jersey London Office
- Labour, 24-27 September, Brighton
Home Affairs Minister Deputy Kristina Moore, two officials from the Government of Jersey London Office
- Conservative, 1-4 October, Manchester
Chief Minister Senator Ian Gorst, three officials from the Government of Jersey London Office, two States of Jersey officials
- SNP, 8-10 October, Glasgow
One official from the Government of Jersey London Office