A Jersey politician is due to appear in the Magistrate’s Court on Friday, accused of immigration offences “relating to the employment of Rwandan nationals”.
Deputy Philip Ozouf, a St Saviour representative and former Minister, made a personal statement in the States Chamber this morning, expressing “regret” that his upcoming court appearance might reflect negatively on the States Assembly.
He is due to appear in the Magistrate’s Court on Friday 11 July.
Deputy Ozouf’s statement in full:
“As a courtesy to this Assembly, I wish to inform Members that I am due to appear in the Magistrate’s Court this coming Friday.
“It is in connection with alleged offences under the Immigration Act as extended to Jersey relating to the employment of Rwandan nationals. Given that this matter is subject to judicial proceedings, I will not be making any further comment at this time, except to confirm that I will co-operate fully with the process.
“As a long standing Member of this Assembly, fully cognisant of the need to uphold the highest standards of conduct in both public and private life, I express regret that this matter has arisen and how it may reflect on this Assembly.
“I express a similar regret to my constituents in St Saviour and I am grateful for the opportunity to make this personal statement.”