The Treasury Minister kicked off a week of debate into the proposed Budget for the next four years this morning, describing the Government’s financial plans as being “rooted in balance and responsibility”.

Deputy Elaine Millar rose to commend her Budget to the States Assembly, saying that elected Members had a duty to make some tough decisions in order to find the best overall outcomes for islanders.

Jersey’s economy remained “fundamentally strong”, Deputy Millar stated, although she conceded that the latest economic forecasts showed slightly lower growth than previously expected, and inflation staying higher for longer, placing more pressure on Government finances.

“In responding to these pressures, we have looked hard at our choices,” she said. “Given the ongoing challenges islanders are facing with the cost of living, we have chosen to protect them from the tax rises we have seen in other jurisdictions.”

Some of the investment within the Budget covered areas “too great to ignore or leave to future governments to address”, Deputy Millar, including £28 million in healthcare, £8m in children’s services, £3m to expand free childcare, and £7m to make the financial services industry more competitive.

“These are not just numbers – they are real investments in the health, wellbeing, and future of our community – where it matters the most,” she said.

The Treasury Minister said the Budget also included a considered, measured approach to cutting costs, with £49m of savings across 2026 and 2027.

“This is a responsible, forward-looking Budget,” she concluded. “It invests in islanders and supports businesses and does so without raising taxes – it positions Jersey as a stable, confident jurisdiction ready to navigate uncertainty and seize opportunities.”

Ahead of the debate, it was confirmed that nine amendments, including three amended by the Council of Ministers, would be accepted.

These included a stamp duty holiday for those downsizing their properties, the establishment of a public services ombudsman and greater emphasis on issues such as implementation of the recommendations by the taskforce into Violence Against Women and Girls, health outcomes for women, preventative health and the climate emergency.

Amendments covering the establishment of safeguards ahead of any charging for inappropriate use of the Emergency Department, Jèrriais teaching and extending free school meals were also accepted.

The debate will continue with Members considering 25 amendments, around two-thirds of the total.