Jersey And UK Reach Landmark Constitutional Agreement

by Jason Gorringe, Tax-News.com, London

04 May 2007

Jersey's Chief Minister, Senator Frank Walker has said that an historic agreement which he recently signed with the UK Secretary of State for Constitutional Affairs, Lord Falconer, was a significant step in the development of Jersey’s international identity.

The agreement highlights the unique constitutional relationship between Jersey and the UK. It recognises that Jersey has a unique identity separate from and different to the UK. It also recognises that there will be times when their interests might differ.

Senator Walker said: "Whilst we will work together to resolve some differences, it is entirely justified for others to remain, to be recognised and respected."

In a statement to States members, the Chief Minister continued:

"The framework does not seek to change our unique constitutional relationship with the UK. We agree that it works well and that we are both committed to evolving methods of achieving our mutual interests. I think that this commitment to continued evolution is very healthy and very important."

"I am also pleased that we have agreed that Jersey and the UK will work together to promote a wider understanding and development of Jersey’s international status and identity. I know this will provide a very strong foundation on which to enhance our standing in the international community which will benefit all Islanders."

"We have all been working hard for many years to counter the negative images that some people would like to paint. A clear statement by the UK endorsing Jersey as a responsible, stable and mature democracy sends a message to the International Community that our detractors will find hard to counter. I envisage that this will not only be good for Jersey’s business interests, but it should be something that every Islander can be proud of."

"We are an Island nation that is proud of our contribution to the world and particularly of the help and assistance we give to poorer and less fortunate countries. We have also been working hard to embed international standards across our government and society. The recognition of these as part of our identity is a clear endorsement to the outside world of the success of our efforts."

"Furthermore it recognises that understanding the different identities of Jersey and the UK is key to the appropriate representation of Jersey on the international stage."

Lord Falconer commented:

“I am pleased to have had a role in assisting the development of Jersey’s international identity. This is an important step forward for relations between the UK and Jersey governments as it clearly recognises the special relationship that exists with the Crown Dependencies.”

In January 2006, Lord Falconer and Senator Walker announced their intention to develop a framework which, for the first time, explicitly marked out Jersey’s distinct international identity.

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