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STATES OF JERSEY
COMMISSIONER FOR STANDARDS: ANNUAL REPORT 2020-2021
Presented to the States on 6th September 2021 by the Privileges and Procedures Committee
STATES GREFFE
2021 R.140
REPORT
The Privileges and Procedures Committee would like to place on record its thanks to Mr. Paul Kernaghan, C.B.E., Q.P.M., the Commissioner for Standards, for his work during the period from 1st September 2020 to 31st August 2021.
In accordance with the provisions of Article 12 of the Commissioner for Standards (Jersey) Law 2017, the Committee is pleased to lay the Commissioner's Annual Report before the States.
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Introduction
This report, the fourth of its type, covers the period 1st September 2020 to 31st August 2021.
The reporting period reflects the fact that my appointment as the Commissioner for Standards commenced on 1st September 2017.
The creation of the post of Commissioner for Standards was provided for by the Commissioner for Standards (Jersey) Law 2017.
Once again, I would like to place on record my thanks to all who have assisted me during the year under review.
This report is published in compliance with the requirements of Article 12 of the Commissioner for Standards (Jersey) Law 2017.
Review of the year
Complaints
Formal complaints received: 12
- complaints dismissed: 0
- resolved by remedial actions: 0
- referred to the Privileges and Procedures Committee: 4
- because fell outside remit: 1
- because anonymous, or failure to comply with other requirement (e.g. lack of evidence): 5
- because of repeating allegations of previous inquiry: 0
- because frivolous or vexatious: 2
The number of complaints submitted to my office was the same as in the previous year. However, in addition to formal complaints, I received additional correspondence highlighting either general concerns about elected Members collectively or specific concerns falling short of formal complaints. It is my practice to advise Members whenever concerns are received, whether or not I record them as formal complaints. One correspondent's letter helpfully identified ambiguous wording in guidance to Members and I know that this matter is being addressed.
Three Members self-referred themselves to my office. I welcome such initiatives as proof that Members are conscious of the need for them to display accountability and leadership as set out in the Code of Conduct for Elected Members.
R.140/2021
Paul Kernaghan CBE QPM Commissioner for Standards