Trott Represents Guernsey In Brussels

by Jason Gorringe, Tax-News.com, London

22 July 2011

Guernsey's Chief Minister, Deputy Lyndon Trott, has returned to Guernsey after a series of meetings in Brussels – his first formal engagements with the European Union (EU) since the launch of the Channel Islands' Brussels Office in April.

Trott said: "The Channels Islands' Brussels Office means that we now have an even more significant foothold in Brussels. The objectives of the meetings I had were to build a broader and deeper understanding of the issues that affect the people of Guernsey – and to seek support on those issues."

The Chief Minister and the island's Chief Executive had meetings with senior officials in three different Commission Directorates General - Maritime Affairs and Fisheries, Transport, and Digital Inclusion.

Discussions took place on a wide range of issues, including the review of the Common Fisheries Policy, the forthcoming review of air slots, shipping issues and e-commerce, the latter being an important growth area for Guernsey's economy.

"The discussions I had were constructive and encouraging. There is a growing understanding not only of the economic contribution of Guernsey to the EU, but also of the importance of considering Guernsey and Channel Island interests in the way that policy is made. Making sure we engage effectively with the EU is a vital part of protecting and promoting our international identity and our economic interests," Trott added.

The Chief Minister and Chief Executive also met with Kim Darroch, the UK's most senior representative in Brussels, to discuss Guernsey's relationship with Europe and the EU, and in particular to discuss tax and regulation issues.

They also met with Christian Braun, Luxembourg's Ambassador to the EU, who coordinated Luxembourg's chairing of the summit on the future of the Euro.

"Decisions that are taken in Europe have direct and indirect impacts on our Bailiwick. The more that Europe understands Guernsey, the more influence we can exert on those issues. I am heartened that Europe's understanding of Guernsey continues to develop in a positive way, and the conversations I have had in Brussels this week are tangible evidence of that," Trott concluded.

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