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WQ.416/2021
WRITTEN QUESTION TO THE MINISTER FOR HOME AFFAIRS
BY THE CONNÉTABLE OF ST. BRELADE
QUESTION SUBMITTED ON MONDAY 18TH OCTOBER 2021 ANSWER TO BE TABLED ON MONDAY 25TH OCTOBER 2021
Question
In light of the fatal attack on Sir David Amess in his U.K. constituency, and the recent instances of terrorist extremism in other parts of the world, is it the Minister's intention to issue guidelines to Jersey politicians to ensure their continued personal safety whilst in office?
Answer
The Minister, on behalf of the State of Jersey Police and the Justice and Home Affairs Department, extend our heartfelt condolences to the family, friends and UK Members of Parliament following the tragic murder of Sir David Amess earlier this month, as we did in similar circumstances following the murder of Jo Cox MP in West Yorkshire in 2016. Thankfully, these are rare events, but are of course devastating when they occur.
The assessed threat and risk to local Jersey politicians is low, generally in keeping with much lower levels of violent extremist crime in Jersey.
The States of Jersey Police has a range of intelligence sources available to it which are dynamic and constant. The Honorary Police network across and into all Parishes of course also allows for excellent community intelligence. Any potentially adverse harmful intelligence directed at any individual is positively and proactively tackled in a range of forms, depending upon the nature of the intelligence.
That said, we are not complacent – neither can we ever completely eliminate risk. Any States Member who has any safety concerns can contact their dedicated SoJP Community Police Officer directly who will be happy to advise, including when holding constituent public surgeries.
The SoJP are also actively monitoring and assessing the UK Policing response to this tragic event in order to identify any developing best practice.