States Meeting Transcript - 1st December 2015

STATES OF JERSEY OFFICIAL REPORT

TUESDAY, 1st DECEMBER 2015

COMMUNICATIONS BY THE PRESIDING OFFICER ......................................9

1. The Bailiff :..............................................................................9

APPOINTMENT OF MINISTERS, COMMITTEES AND PANELS..........................9

2. Appointment of Assistant Minister for Treasury and Resources........................9

2.1 Senator A.J.H. Maclean (The Minister for Treasury and Resources):....................9

QUESTIONS.....................................................................................10

3. Written Questions.......................................................................10

1. THE DEPUTY OF ST. JOHN OF THE CHIEF MINISER REGARDING CHANGES MADE TO THE SOCIAL RENTAL POLICY IN 2013:................................10
2. THE DEPUTY OF ST. JOHN OF THE MINISTER FOR TREASURY AND RESOURCES REGARDING DEPARTMENTAL BUDGETS FROM 2009 TO 2015:11
3. THE DEPUTY OF ST. JOHN OF THE CHIEF MINISTER REGARDING REPORTS PRODUCED BY OXERA:.............................................................12
4. THE DEPUTY OF ST. JOHN OF THE MINISTER FOR TREASURY AND RESOURCES REGARDING THE RESTRUCTURING OF THE TREASURY AND RESOURCES DEPARTMENT:........................................................12
5. THE DEPUTY OF ST. JOHN OF THE MINISTER FOR SOCIAL SECURITY REGARDING REPORTS USED TO MEASURE THE SUCCESS OF THE INCOME SUPPORT SYSTEM:..................................................................13
6. DEPUTY S.Y. MÉZEC OF ST. HELIER OF THE MINISTER FOR HEALTH AND SOCIAL SERVICES REGARDING WAITING LISTS FOR CATARACT OPERATIONS:........................................................................14
7. DEPUTY S.Y. MÉZEC OF ST. HELIER OF THE MINISTER FOR HOUSING REGARDING MEASURES TO REDUCE RENTAL COSTS:........................15
8. DEPUTY S.Y. MÉZEC OF ST. HELIER OF THE CHIEF MINISTER REGARDING THE SUGGESTION THAT JERSEY COULD CONTRIBUTE TO A ROYAL COMMISSION INTO THE DIFFICULTIES FACING SARK:........................15
9. DEPUTY G.P. SOUTHERN OF ST. HELIER OF THE MINISTER FOR SOCIAL SECURITY REGARDING CHILD POVERTY:.......................................16
10. DEPUTY G.P. SOUTHERN OF ST. HELIER OF THE CHIEF MINISTER REGARDING INCOME INEQUALITY:..............................................17
11. DEPUTY G.P. SOUTHERN OF ST. HELIER OF THE CHIEF MINISTER REGARDING THE FALL IN HOUSEHOLD INCOME:..............................18

12. DEPUTY G.P. SOUTHERN OF ST. HELIER OF THE MINISTER FOR SOCIAL SECURITY REGARDING REDUCTIONS IN FUNDING FOR THE JERSEY EMPLOYMENT TRUST:..............................................................19
13. DEPUTY J.M. MACON OF ST. SAVIOUR OF THE MINISTER FOR EDUCATION, SPORT AND CULTURE REGARDING THE COST TO HIGHLANDS OF RUNNING DEGREE COURSES: ..................................................................20

14. DEPUTY J.M. MACON OF ST. SAVIOUR OF THE MINISTER FOR EDUCATION, SPORT AND CULTURE REGARDING INCREASES IN TUITION FEES:..........21
15. DEPUTY J.M. MACON OF ST. SAVIOUR OF THE CHIEF MINISTER REGARDING RECORDS RELATING TO THE APPOINTMENT OF THE CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER OF THE STATES OF JERSEY:............................................21
16. DEPUTY J.M. MACON OF ST. SAVIOUR OF THE CHAIRMAN OF THE PRIVILEGES AND PROCEDURES COMMITTEE REGARDING TOURS OF THE STATES ASSEMBLY: ................................................................22
17. DEPUTY M.R. HIGGINS OF ST. HELIER OF THE CHIEF MINISTER REGARDING PAYMENTS MADE TO THE ACTING POLICE CHIEF WHO RESIGNED IN 2010: 22
18. DEPUTY M.R. HIGGINS OF THE MINISTER FOR HOME AFFAIRS REGARDING INFORMATION LEAKED BY A FORMER DETECTIVE SUPERINTENDENT TO THE MEDIA:..........................................................................23
19. DEPUTY M.R. HIGGINS OF ST. HELIER OF THE MINISTER FOR HOME AFFAIRS REGARDING PAYMENTS MADE TO A FORMER DETECTIVE SUPERINTENDENT FROM LANCASHIRE POLICE: ...............................24
20. DEPUTY M.R. HIGGINS OF ST. HELIER OF THE CHIEF MINISTER REGARDING THE NUMBER OF PEOPLE ISSUED WITH REGISTRATION CARDS UNDER THE CONTROL OF HOUSING AND WORK (JERSEY) LAW 2012:......................24
21. DEPUTY G.P. SOUTHERN OF ST. HELIER OF THE CHIEF MINISTER REGARDING SUPPORT FOR THE WORK OF THE GRACE TRUST AND OTHER CHARITABLE ORGANISATIONS: ..................................................29

4 Oral Questions...........................................................................30

1. Connétable C.H. Taylor of St. John of the Minister for Treasury and Resources regarding the annual cost of collecting Vehicle Emission Duty:...................................30 Deputy E.J. Noel of St. Lawrence (Assistant Minister for Treasury and Resources - rapporteur):.............................................................................31

1. Deputy M. Tadier of St. Brelade:.......................................................31
2. Deputy M. Tadier :......................................................................31
3. The Connétable of St. John:............................................................31

2. Deputy M. Tadier of the Minister for Home Affairs regarding camera surveillance: ....32 Deputy K.L. Moore of St. Peter (The Minister for Home Affairs):............................32

1. Deputy M. Tadier :......................................................................32
2. Deputy M. Tadier :......................................................................32
3. Deputy G.P. Southern of St. Helier:....................................................32
4. Deputy G.P. Southern :..................................................................32
5. Deputy M. Tadier :......................................................................33

3. Deputy K.C. Lewis of St. Saviour of the Minister for Economic Development regarding gas tariffs:..............................................................................33 Senator L.J. Farnham (The Minister for Economic Development):............................33

1. Deputy K.C. Lewis :....................................................................33
2. Deputy G.P. Southern :..................................................................34

3. Deputy G.P. Southern :..................................................................34
4. Deputy M. Tadier :......................................................................34
5. Deputy M. Tadier :......................................................................35

6. Deputy K.C. Lewis :....................................................................35

4. Senator Z.A. Cameron of the Minister for Home Affairs regarding armed police on duty in the Island:............................................................................36 The Deputy of St. Peter (The Minister for Home Affairs): ....................................36

1. Senator Z.A. Cameron:.................................................................36
2. Senator Z.A. Cameron:.................................................................36

5. Deputy G.P. Southern of the Minister for Social Security regarding the reduction in grant to the Jersey Employment Trust:........................................................36 Deputy S.J. Pinel of St. Clement (The Minister for Social Security):..........................36

1. Deputy G.P. Southern :..................................................................37
2. Deputy G.P. Southern :..................................................................37
3. Deputy G.P. Southern :..................................................................37

6. Deputy J.M. Maçon of St. Savour of the Chief Minister regarding introducing a mechanism to validate the signatures of those who were not able to physically sign their name on a will:.........................................................................38 Senator I.J. Gorst (The Chief Minister):......................................................38
7. Deputy S.Y. Mézec of St. Helier of the Chief Minister regarding social inclusion and tackling relative low income:...........................................................38 Senator I.J. Gorst (The Chief Minister):......................................................38

1. Deputy S.Y. Mézec :....................................................................38
2. Deputy M. Tadier :......................................................................38
3. Deputy M. Tadier :......................................................................39
4. Deputy J.A. Martin of St. Helier:.......................................................39
5. Deputy M.R. Higgins of St. Helier:.....................................................39
6. Deputy G.P. Southern :..................................................................40
7. Deputy G.P. Southern :..................................................................40

8. Deputy S.Y. Mézec :....................................................................40

8. Deputy L.M.C. Doublet of St. Saviour of the Chief Minister regarding the Jersey Women in Business' report:............................................................41 Senator I.J. Gorst (The Chief Minister):......................................................41

1. Deputy L.M.C. Doublet :................................................................41
2. Deputy A.D. Lewis of St. Helier:.......................................................41

9. Deputy M.R. Higgins of the Chief Minister regarding documents requested by the Independent Jersey Care Inquiry:.......................................................42 Senator I.J. Gorst (The Chief Minister):......................................................42
10. Deputy M. Tadier of the Minister for Transport and Technical Services regarding plans to charge for disabled parking:..........................................................42 Deputy E.J. Noel (The Minister for Transport and Technical Services):......................42

1. Deputy M. Tadier :...................................................................42
2. Deputy G.P. Southern : ..............................................................43
3. Deputy P.D. McLinton of St. Saviour:...............................................43
4. Deputy M.R.Higgins:...............................................................43
5. Deputy M. Tadier :...................................................................43

11. Deputy G.P. Southern of the Minister for Social Security regarding Income Support payments to single parent households:..................................................44 Deputy S.J. Pinel (The Minister for Social Security):.........................................44

1. Deputy G.P. Southern : ..............................................................44

2. Deputy G.P. Southern : ..............................................................45
3. Deputy S.Y. Mézec :.................................................................45
4. Deputy S.Y. Mézec :.................................................................45
5. Deputy G.P. Southern : ..............................................................46
6. Deputy G.P. Southern : ..............................................................46
7. Deputy G.P. Southern : ..............................................................46

12. Deputy M.R. Higgins of the Chief Minister regarding the supply of the Sharp Report to the Independent Jersey Care Inquiry:...................................................47 Senator I.J. Gorst (The Chief Minister):......................................................47
13. Deputy S.Y. Mézec of the Minister Chief Minister regarding outsourcing in respect of the Transport and Technical Services Department:......................................47 Senator I.J. Gorst (The Chief Minister):......................................................47

1. Deputy S.Y. Mézec :.................................................................47
2. Deputy J.M. Maçon:.................................................................48
3. Deputy G.P. Southern : ..............................................................48
4. Deputy G.P. Southern : ..............................................................48

14. Deputy L.M.C. Doublet of the Minister for Social Security regarding the allocation of named contacts to clients of the Social SecurityDepartment:...........................48 Deputy S.J. Pinel (The Minister for Social Security):.........................................49

1. Deputy L.M.C. Doublet :.............................................................49
2. Deputy J.A. Martin: .................................................................49
3. Senator Z.A. Cameron:..............................................................50
4. Deputy G.P. Southern : ..............................................................50
5. Deputy J.M. Maçon:.................................................................51
6. Deputy K.C. Lewis : .................................................................51
7. Deputy L.M.C. Doublet :.............................................................51

15. The Connétable of St. John of the Chief Minister regarding immigration controls:......51 Senator P.F. Routier (Assistant Chief Minister - rapporteur):.................................52

1. The Connétable of St. John : .........................................................52
2. Deputy M. Tadier :...................................................................52
3. Deputy M. Tadier :...................................................................52
4. Deputy J.A. Martin: .................................................................53
5. Deputy G.P. Southern : ..............................................................53
6. The Connétable of St. John : .........................................................54

16. Deputy J.M. Maçon of the Minister for Transport and Technical Services regarding outsourcing and privatisation:..........................................................54 Deputy E.J. Noel (The Minister for Transport and Technical Services):......................54

1. Deputy J.M. Maçon:.................................................................54
2. Deputy M.R.Higgins:...............................................................55
3. Deputy M.R.Higgins:...............................................................55
4. Deputy G.P. Southern : ..............................................................55
5. Deputy G.P. Southern : ..............................................................55
6. Deputy J.A. Martin: .................................................................56
7. Deputy J.A. Martin: .................................................................56
8. Deputy A.D. Lewis : .................................................................56
9. The Connétable of St. John : .........................................................56
10. The Connétable of St. John : ......................................................56
11. Deputy J.M. Maçon:..............................................................57

5. Questions to Ministers without notice - The Minister for Education, Sport and Culture...................................................................................57

1. Deputy P.D. McLinton: ................................................................57 Deputy R.G. Bryans of St. Helier (The Minister for Education, Sport and Culture):..........57
2. Deputy L.M.C. Doublet :................................................................57
3. Deputy M. Tadier :......................................................................58

5.3.1 Deputy M. Tadier :......................................................................58

4. Deputy A.D. Lewis :....................................................................58

5.4.1 Deputy A.D. Lewis :....................................................................58

5. Deputy G.P. Southern :..................................................................58

5.5.1 Deputy G.P. Southern :..................................................................59

6. Deputy S.Y. Mézec :....................................................................59
7. Deputy L.M.C. Doublet :................................................................59

5.7.1 Deputy L.M.C. Doublet :................................................................60

8. Deputy M. Tadier :......................................................................60
9. Deputy G.P. Southern :..................................................................60

5.9.1 Deputy G.P. Southern :..................................................................60

10. Deputy L.M.C. Doublet :................................................................60
11. Deputy A.D. Lewis :....................................................................61

6. Questions to Ministers without notice - The Chief Minister............................61

1. Deputy M. Tadier :......................................................................61 Senator I.J. Gorst (The Chief Minister):......................................................61

1. Deputy M. Tadier . ......................................................................61
   2. Deputy S.Y. Mézec :....................................................................62

6.2.1 Deputy S.Y. Mézec :....................................................................62

3. Deputy A.D. Lewis :....................................................................62
4. Deputy L.M.C. Doublet :................................................................62
5. Deputy T.A. Vallois of St. John:........................................................63
6. Deputy G.P. Southern :..................................................................63
7. Deputy S.Y. Mézec :....................................................................63
8. Deputy M. Tadier :......................................................................64

6.8.1 Deputy M. Tadier :......................................................................64

9. Deputy G.P. Southern :..................................................................64

6.9.1 Deputy G.P. Southern :..................................................................64

10. Deputy M. Tadier :......................................................................65

6.10.1 Deputy M. Tadier :...................................................................65

11. Deputy G.P. Southern :..................................................................65

STATEMENTS ON A MATTER OF OFFICIAL RESPONSIBILITY........................65

7. The Chief Minister - statement regarding Syrian refugees............................65

7.1 Senator I.J. Gorst (The Chief Minister):................................................65

1. Connétable D.W. Mezbourian of St. Lawrence:........................................67
2. Connétable M.P.S. Le Troquer of St. Martin:...........................................67
3. Deputy M. Tadier :......................................................................67
4. Deputy J.A. Martin:....................................................................68
5. The Connétable of St. Martin:..........................................................69
6. Deputy M. Tadier :......................................................................69
7. Deputy J.A. Hilton of St. Helier:........................................................69

8. Deputy R.J. Renouf of St. Ouen:........................................................70
9. The Connétable of St. Martin:..........................................................70

PUBLIC BUSINESS.............................................................................71

8. Ex Gratia payment to Mr. Roy Boschat (P.82/2015) ...................................71

8.1 Deputy T.A. McDonald of St. Saviour:.................................................71

LUNCHEON ADJOURNMENT PROPOSED..................................................75 LUNCHEON ADJOURNMENT................................................................75

Deputy T.A. McDonald:......................................................................75

1. The Connétable of St. Lawrence:.......................................................78 Deputy M.R.Higgins:........................................................................81 The Connétable of St. Lawrence:.............................................................82
2. Deputy S.M. Wickenden of St. Helier:..................................................84
3. The Connétable of St. Martin:..........................................................84
4. Senator P.M. Bailhache : ................................................................85
5. Deputy G.P. Southern :..................................................................86
6. Senator P.F. Routier: ...................................................................86
7. Deputy J.A.N. Le Fondré:..............................................................86
8. Deputy J.A. Martin:....................................................................87
9. The Connétable of St. John:............................................................88
10. The Deputy of St. Peter:.............................................................88
11. Deputy M. Tadier :...................................................................91
12. Deputy M.R.Higgins:...............................................................93
13. Senator I.J. Gorst : ...................................................................94 Mr. M.H. Temple Q.C., H.M. Solicitor General:..............................................95
14. Deputy T.A. McDonald:.............................................................96

9. Ratification of the Multilateral Competent Authority Agreement on Automatic Exchange of Financial Account Information to improve international tax compliance based on the Common Reporting Standard for the Automatic Exchange of Financial Information approved by the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (P.117/2015)...............................................................98

9.1 Senator P.M. Bailhache (The Minister for External Relations):.........................99

10. Draft Taxation (Implementation) (International Tax Compliance) (Common Reporting Standard) (Jersey) Regulations 201- (P.118/2015) ..........................99

1. Senator P.M. Bailhache (The Minister for External Relations):.........................99
2. Senator P.M. Bailhache : ..............................................................100

11. Draft E.U. Legislation (Transmissible Spongiform Encephalopathies) (Jersey) Regulations 201- (P.119/2015)..........................................................100

1. Deputy S.G. Luce of St. Martin (The Minister for Planning and Environment):.......101

1. Deputy J.A. Martin: ................................................................102
2. Deputy A.D. Lewis : ................................................................102
3. The Deputy of St. Martin : ..........................................................102

2. The Deputy of St. Martin:.............................................................102

1. Deputy J.A. Martin: ................................................................102
2. The Deputy of St. Martin : ..........................................................103

12. Draft Commissioner for Standards (Jersey) Law 201- (P.120/2015)..................105

12.1 Connétable L. Norman of St. Clement (Chairman, Privileges and Procedures Committee): ..........................................................................105

1. Deputy J.M. Maçon:................................................................106
2. Deputy S.M. Wickenden:..........................................................106
3. Deputy G.P. Southern : .............................................................106
4. Senator Z.A. Cameron:.............................................................106
5. Senator L.J. Farnham : ..............................................................106
6. The Deputy of St. John:............................................................106
7. Deputy M. Tadier :..................................................................107
8. Deputy J.A. Martin: ................................................................108
9. Deputy P.D. McLinton:............................................................108
10. Senator P.F. Routier:............................................................108
11. Deputy J.A.N. Le Fondré:.......................................................108
12. Connétable J. Gallichan of St. Mary:............................................109 Deputy G.P. Southern :......................................................................109 The Solicitor General:.......................................................................109 The Connétable of St. John:.................................................................110 Deputy M. Tadier : ..........................................................................110
13. Deputy D. Johnson of St. Mary:.................................................110
14. Deputy A.D. Lewis :.............................................................111
15. The Deputy of St. Ouen : ........................................................111 Deputy M. Tadier : ..........................................................................111

13. Draft Employment (Minimum Wage) (Amendment No. 12) (Jersey) Regulations 201- (P.122/2015)............................................................................112

1. Deputy S.J. Pinel (The Minister for Social Security):..................................113

1. Deputy G.P. Southern : .............................................................113
2. Deputy A.D. Lewis : ................................................................113
3. Deputy S.J. Pinel:..................................................................115

2. Deputy S.J. Pinel:.....................................................................115
3. Deputy S.J. Pinel:.....................................................................115

14. Draft Employment (Amendment No. 9) (Jersey) Law 201- (P.123/2015) ............116

1. Deputy S.J. Pinel (The Minister for Social Security):..................................116
2. Deputy S.J. Pinel:.....................................................................117

1. Deputy G.P. Southern : .............................................................117
2. Deputy S.J. Pinel:..................................................................117

15. Draft Taxation (Implementation) (Disclosure Facility) (Repeal) (Jersey) Regulations 201- (P.124/2015).......................................................................119

15.1 Senator P.M. Bailhache (The Minister for External Relations):........................119

16. Draft E.U. Legislation (Payment Services – SEPA) (Jersey) Regulations 201- (P.125/2015)............................................................................120

1. Senator I.J. Gorst (The Chief Minister):...............................................120
2. Senator I.J. Gorst :.....................................................................121

ADJOURNMENT..............................................................................122

[9:30]

The Roll was called and the Dean led the Assembly in Prayer. COMMUNICATIONS BY THE PRESIDING OFFICER

1. The Bailiff :

Returning to the Order Paper, I am pleased in the usual way to welcome His Excellency, the Lieutenant Governor.   [Approbation]

APPOINTMENT OF MINISTERS, COMMITTEES AND PANELS

The Bailiff :

I understand the Minister for Treasury and Resources may wish to say something.

2. Appointment of Assistant Minister for Treasury and Resources

2.1 Senator A.J.H. Maclean (The Minister for Treasury and Resources):

Very briefly, I wanted to advise Members that following discussions with the Chief Minister I have agreed with a Member of the Assembly to be an additional Assistant Minister for Treasury and Resources. The Member that has agreed to take up that important role is the Constable of St. Peter, Constable Refault. I am delighted that the Constable has agreed to take that position and many Members will be aware that he has in fact been a former Assistant Minister for Treasury and Resources. He has a wealth of experience therefore of the department, which I will greatly welcome in the coming weeks, months and the remaining period of this term. Members will also be aware that the Connétable is an Assistant Minister at Health currently. It has been agreed in conjunction with my colleague and friends, the Minister for Health, that the Connétable will retain his responsibilities as an Assistant Minister for Health as well. Members will be aware that in a previous Assembly Constable Refault has also held dual roles before, and he is comfortable with the fact that he has the bandwidth to fulfil these important functions; so he will be Assistant Minister of both Treasury and also at Health. There is clearly a link between the 2 departments, which is one of the matters that I gave careful consideration to. The very important project relating to a new hospital is a matter both Treasury and the Health Department are very closely involved with. The experience that the Connétable has in property related matters before he came to this Assembly, where he had extensive property experience, is going to be of some considerable value. I would also briefly mention to Members that do not recall, that the Connétable also was the States nominated director of W.E.B. (Waterfront Enterprise Board) in its previous culmination before indeed it became the States of Jersey Development Company. He therefore knows that business and those who work within S.o.J.D.C. (States of Jersey Development Company) and the project intimately, and that is an area of particular focus that he will have responsibility for as Assistant Minister for Treasury and Resources. I hope Members will support the appointment, which I think is very positive. I welcome his knowledge and his experience and I know all in

Treasury will welcome him back into the Treasury fold. Thank you very much.   [Approbation] [9:45]

The Very Reverend R.F. Key, B.A., The Dean of Jersey:

I wonder if I may just explain to the Assembly that I shall be leaving around 11.00 a.m. because of duties with former Senator Le Main and his wife. Members will be aware that Mr. Le Main has lost 2 children in bygone years and I am going to dedicate memorials in their memory in Grouville and at St. Catherine's, and I wondered if I might be allowed to take the good wishes of the Assembly to this long-serving Senator with me when I go.

The Bailiff :

I am sure Members will want to accept that.   [Approbation]

QUESTIONS

3. Written Questions

1. THE DEPUTY OF ST. JOHN OF THE CHIEF MINISER REGARDING CHANGES MADE TO THE SOCIAL RENTAL POLICY IN 2013:

Question

During the States sitting on 17th November 2015 the Chief Minister gave an undertaking to provide analysis as to whether the changes made to the Social Rental Policy in 2013 (including an increase in rents to 90% of market rent) had in fact had the impact shown in the Jersey Income Distribution Survey. Could the Chief Minister provide this information and explain what the government will be doing differently, if anything, to ensure that changes made to Income Support and taxes in the future will not be undermined by housing prices?

Answer

Our incomes have grown by less than inflation since 2010 because of economic conditions. However our incomes are still 50% higher than the United Kingdom before housing costs, and 45% higher after housing costs. Our income distribution is similar to the United Kingdom before housing costs, but widens after housing costs.

This illustrates that economic conditions have been difficult, although they are now improving; that Jersey is a prosperous place, and that housing in Jersey is expensive. Those with mortgages have benefitted from low interest rates over the past five years, while those who rent their homes have not.

The Council of Ministers is tackling this issue by supporting the Minister for Housing in delivering the Housing Strategy. This strategy aims to provide more and better housing by increasing supply from the private sector; by rezoning sites for social housing; by maximising use of existing sites, and continuing to invest the £250 million bond in social housing as part of a sustainable funding model.

The 90% rent policy was designed to create a sustainable funding model. This will enable more social housing to be built and the existing stock, after years of under-investment, to be brought to a decent standard. Having a decent home is central to quality of life and an inclusive society.

This rent policy means that those who can pay do, while those in need are protected through income support. This approach means that people in social housing pay a similar amount, and receive a similar amount of support, to those in private sector rented accommodation.

The 90% rent policy is being introduced gradually. Only a limited number of properties – around 20% - are currently on that rate. Furthermore, over the last 5 years rents in the social housing sector have risen at a slower rate (18%) compared to rents in the private sector (23%). It is therefore difficult to ascribe the introduction of the rent policy to the changes shown in the Income Distribution Survey. At the same time, social housing tenants, in particular those of working age, have seen a relative decline in their income after housing costs over the period.

The Income Distribution Survey provides valuable evidence as we work to improve the lives of islanders and needs careful consideration alongside other evidence. This work is being undertaken by the Statistics Unit, the Social Security Department, the social housing providers, and the Strategic Housing Unit, as part of the programme of work outlined in the Housing Strategy.

2. THE  DEPUTY  OF  ST.  JOHN  OF  THE  MINISTER  FOR  TREASURY  AND RESOURCES REGARDING DEPARTMENTAL BUDGETS FROM 2009 TO 2015: Question

Could the Minister provide a table of data identifying baseline budgets for departments from 2009 to 2015 and specify the growth, savings and charges applied for each department in each year and setting out the cost of any restructuring or reform funds during these periods?

Answer

The following table shows the original approved budgets for States departments for each of the years 2009 to 2015.

Provision of the remainder of the information requested for each year for each department would take  considerable  time  and  resource  and  cannot  be  achieved  with  an  acceptable  level  of completeness within the deadline for responding to written questions. The remaining information requested is readily available on the States Assembly website www.statesassembly.gov.je in the Department Annexes to the Annual Business Plans for 2009 to 2012 and in the Annex to the MTFP for 2013-2015. Further information is provided in the Annual Updates to MTFP Department Annex for 2014 and 2015.

The  Department  Annex  to  the  MTFP  2013-15  (P.69/2012  as  amended) also  provided  a comprehensive  summary  of  the  savings  and  users  pays  initiatives  from  the  Comprehensive Spending Review 2011-2013. Identification of all annual increases would not be practical.

If there  is particular  information that the Deputy requires  that is  not readily available  in the Department Annexes, the Minister for Treasury and Resources will provide that information on request, or invite the Deputy to come back into the Treasury and meet with the relevant officers.

3. THE DEPUTY OF ST. JOHN OF THE CHIEF MINISTER REGARDING REPORTS PRODUCED BY OXERA:

Question

Could the Chief Minister provide the number of reports produced by Oxera, stating what each report was relevant to and the cost applicable to each?

Answer

The table below shows the reports produced by Oxera since 2013 and updates the Chief Minister's answer to written question 7597 from Deputy Vallois in 2013. It should be noted that work this year has also been undertaken by Oxera on business connectivity costs and the proposed merger of JT/Airtel although the reports have not yet been finalised.

4. THE  DEPUTY  OF  ST.  JOHN  OF  THE  MINISTER  FOR  TREASURY  AND RESOURCES REGARDING THE RESTRUCTURING OF THE TREASURY AND RESOURCES DEPARTMENT:

Question

On 3rd August 2009 a draft restructuring plan for the Treasury and Resources Department was announced and funds were appropriated to restructure the Department. Could the Minister explain why that plan is no longer accessible on the gov.je website? Could the Minister also state whether the plan was executed in the way prescribed and provide evidence of this? Also, could the Minister detail the full cost of the report and how the content compares to the 2014 report on Financial Management produced by the Comptroller and Auditor General?

Answer

The draft restructuring plan announced by the then Minister for Treasury and Resources would appear not to have been uploaded to complement the media release of 3rd August 2009. The

financial details of the plan are contained within pages 129-141 of the Annual Business Plan 2010 available at  http://www.statesassembly.gov.je/AssemblyPropositions/2009/31645-42259- 2172009.pdf.

The majority of the objectives within the document have been implemented including:

• the development of a Common Investment Fund;
• investment strategies for all Funds;
• implementation and oversight of the Fiscal Stimulus programme;
• development of the Fiscal Strategy;
• a review of the shareholder function;
• additional resource to support international tax treaties;
• the introduction of longer term financial planning;
• the development of corporate contracts;
• appointment of a tax strategist; and
• additional resource in the Investigations team within the Taxes Office.

The implementation of many of the recommendations is self-evident and the Deputy will be aware of the Medium and Long Term Financial Plans. In other cases, objectives have not been implemented precisely as set out.

It is understood that this report was produced internally using internal resources.

In terms of content compared to the 2014 report produced by the Comptroller and Auditor General, which was in respect of Financial Management, the 2009 Treasury report covered all aspects of the Treasury's activities.

5. THE DEPUTY OF ST. JOHN OF THE MINISTER FOR SOCIAL SECURITY REGARDING REPORTS USED TO MEASURETHE SUCCESS OF THE INCOME SUPPORT SYSTEM:

Question

In answer to question 1240/5(9053) on 17th November 2015, the Minister provided links to a number of reports used to measure the success of the Income Support system. Could the Minister advise how these reports were used to determine recent measures in the Medium Term Financial Plan and in Orders made by the Minister and detail how those measures contribute to alleviating relative poverty in the Island?

Answer

In my answer to question 9053 I provided links to the Social Security Department's annual reports. These documents, which contain extensive detail about the operation of all Social Security benefits, including Income Support, are designed to be accessible to the layperson - with the aim of encouraging wide public scrutiny of the benefit system. Our commitment to financial and operational transparency performs an essential role in letting the public understand how tax-funded expenditure is planned, and how it is then targeted to those households most in need of support. The detail included as part of these reports demonstrates, at a high level, that my Department is prudent with its budget, but also shows that even the smallest parts of the benefit system are considered as part of our forward planning. For example, by analysing Income Support into its constituent elements and charting expenditure on different groups, the reports demonstrate how we keep all aspects of the Income Support system under review.

Through this thorough understanding of the operation of the benefit system, we were able to propose measures that keep tax funded benefit expenditure more or less flat over the period of the Medium  Term  Financial  Plan,  whilst  minimising  the  impact  on  the  majority  of  claimant households. Some of these measures were adopted as a consequence of the debates surrounding the Medium Term Financial Plan, some were made subsequently by Order. In each case, the measures were  supported  by material  that  explained  our  decisions  within  the  overall  context  of  the information provided as part of the annual reports.   Steps were also taken to improve the fairness of  the  benefit  system,  which  involved  increasing  payments  to  some  groups  whilst  removing additional payments that were previously available to others.

The Council of Ministers is firmly committed to promoting social inclusion and addressing relative low income. In approving the Medium Term Financial Plan, the States agreed to prioritise the need to support growth in health and education budgets, and reaffirmed a longstanding policy to support economic growth. These are the essential drivers to improve the life chances of all households in Jersey.

6. DEPUTY S.Y. MÉZEC OF ST. HELIER OF THE MINISTER FOR HEALTH AND SOCIAL  SERVICES  REGARDING  WAITING  LISTS  FOR  CATARACT OPERATIONS:

Question

How long are the current waiting lists for cataract operations? How long have waiting lists been, on average, each year for the past 5 years and what, if anything, is being done to try to reduce waiting lists?

Answer

Ophthalmology is a particularly busy service with over 1,000 patients a month being seen in the clinics and surgery taking place on 21 theatre lists each month.

The specialist expertise of the three consultants now in post means that a significant number of patients requiring specialist procedures can now be treated on-Island. Fewer than 5 patients a month are now being referred to the UK; as recently as Spring 2014, this figure was around 20. Many of these procedures are urgent or the result of emergencies and they always take priority over routine cataract procedures.

As a result, average waiting times for routine cataract operations have increased. While no new investment is planned for the ophthalmology service during 2016, the department will be reviewing processes, systems and procedures to improve efficiency and to deliver reductions in waiting times.

Average waiting times are shown in the table below:

Note:  The  patient  administration  system  (TRAK)  was  introduced  part  way  through  2011; information before this point is not readily available.

7. DEPUTY  S.Y. MÉZEC  OF ST.  HELIER  OF  THE  MINISTER  FOR  HOUSING REGARDING MEASURES TO REDUCE RENTAL COSTS:

Question

Given the dramatic effect on levels of Relative Low Income that housing costs were shown to have had in the Income Distribution Survey 2014/15, what measures, if any, will the Minister be looking at to bring down rental costs to ensure that no more families end up living in poverty?

Is the Minister considering any changes to the current policy, and what thought, if any, will the Minister give to introducing rent control and to an empty property tax to encourage landlords not to leave properties empty in an effort to drive up rents?

Answer

The Housing Strategy that has been proposed is clear – Jersey needs better and affordable housing. This is why the Housing Strategy sets out four clear objectives – more housing supply, best use of our housing stock, better neighbourhoods, and improved standards.

The primary means of supporting affordability is to deliver an adequate supply of new, good standard housing for our population, while also getting the most out of our existing housing, including reviewing options to get empty homes back into use.

This means using the £250 million housing bond to deliver on the re-zoned sites, to get the most out of existing housing sites, and to improve standards across the board. Alongside this delivery of social housing, the Council of Ministers is focussed on supporting a strong economy to help with the delivery of new private sector housing. The Scrutiny Panel have been very clear that we need deliver more housing.

Our plans will deliver at least 1,000 affordable homes and 3,000 open market homes over the course of the Island Plan.

Evidence shows that rent controls can reduce investment in the rental sector, and thereby reduce supply and quality, and distort the market.

It is vital that we have appropriate data on recent trends. The forthcoming rental price index, which will be published by the Statistics Unit in February 2016, will further inform this debate.

The Income Distribution Survey shows that people in social housing, in particular those of working age, have found the climate difficult. This needs further analysis, and no conclusions should be drawn in advance. In doing this, however, we cannot undermine the funding models that underpin the much needed investment and additional supply of social housing, and need to focus on the objectives outlined in the Housing Strategy.

8. DEPUTY S.Y. MÉZEC OF ST. HELIER OF THE CHIEF MINISTER REGARDING THE  SUGGESTION  THAT  JERSEY  COULD  CONTRIBUTE  TO  A  ROYAL COMMISSION INTO THE DIFFICULTIES FACING SARK:

Question

What consideration, if any, has been given to the suggestion from prominent Channel Islanders of Jersey contributing, both in cost and expertise, to a Royal Commission into the difficulties facing Sark?

Answer

We note that the Chief Minister of Guernsey, Deputy Jonathan Le Tocq has said: "Whether Sark wishes to seek a panel of inquiry to investigate its domestic affairs is a matter for Sark, working with the Crown." The Ministry of Justice has said that it is a matter for the Sark authorities to consider how they would like to proceed. We also note that a Bailiwick of Guernsey Council is being established, which will bring together representatives of the States of Guernsey, States of Alderney and Chief Pleas of Sark. Jersey participates in the friends of Sark' group established by the Ministry of Justice, and we stand ready to respond to any, further, official requests for assistance.

9. DEPUTY G.P. SOUTHERN OF ST. HELIER OF THE MINISTER FOR SOCIAL SECURITY REGARDING CHILD POVERTY:

Question

At a scrutiny hearing on 3rd September 2015 the Minister did not accept that, following the withdrawal of the Income Support single parent component, child poverty might increase; however, in the light of the figures produced in the Income Distribution Survey 2014/15 does the Minister now consider that there is a link between single parenthood and children at risk of being in poverty?

Has the risk of child poverty increased given the significant rise in the proportion of single parent households below the low income threshold after housing costs over the past 5 years (from 46% to 56%)? Does the Minister have an explanation for the change, and if not why not?

What figures, if any, does the Minister have for the impact of the withdrawal of the single parent component on the proportion of single parents and their children living below the low income threshold and what justification, if any, can the Minister offer for the decision to cut the single parent component before seeing the evidence contained in the Income Distribution Survey?

Answer

The information provided in the Income Distribution Survey includes an analysis of relative low income.

The report notes that

"this provides a relative measure of low income, within the context of a particular jurisdiction, and relative to all household types, rather than an absolute measure of low income for a particular household. In addition, this measure does not take into account spending patterns, which are likely to vary between household types.

This measure of relative low income does not therefore indicate which households have an income level below that is necessary to maintain a certain standard of living for that household type."

Whereas relative low income can be taken as a measure of being at risk of relative poverty, it is important that the two concepts are not confused.

Relative low income is calculated from the income distribution of households within a specific jurisdiction. Applying the methodology given in the Income Distribution Survey, it is possible to calculate that the relative low income threshold for a single parent with one child in Jersey, after housing costs, is £265 per week.   An estimate of the equivalent figure for the UK, using the data provided in the survey, is £180 per week.  

The Income Distribution Survey groups household by household type. From the 2011 Census, 4% of households are identified as single parents, equating to roughly 1,800 households across the island. This compares with 19% households identified as couples with children, equating to roughly 7,800 households.

In terms of relative low income, the proportions provided in the survey relate to approximately

• 1,000 single parent households and
• 1,700 couple families.

The Income Distribution Survey shows an increase in the proportion of households in relative low income across all household types, with the exception of "couple with no children." This general trend reflects the local impact of the global recession particularly in terms of wage levels and housing costs.

The Income Distribution Survey provides for a comparison between different sized families, based on equivilised incomes.

As noted above, applying the calculation shows that the relative low income threshold for a single parent with one child aged under 13 after housing costs is £265.   A single parent is entitled to basic Income Support components, excluding housing costs, of £207. This represents 78% of the relative low income threshold. This is a base figure and any earned income or maintenance income received by the single parent will provide them with a higher household income.

This proportion is similar to the calculation for a couple with one child under 13 shows that Income Support components make up 73% of the relative low income threshold. Again, earned income will increase this value.

Last month the States Assembly agreed to phase out the lone parent component which added an extra £40 per week over and above other components, as part of the MTFP debate. With this component in place, the support available to a single parent would be set at 93% of the relative low income threshold, considerably higher than the support available to a couple with children. As such, the phasing out of the extra £40 is an appropriate change to ensure that the benefit system is fair and well targeted.

The benefit changes approved as part of the MTFP ensure that growth funding can be targeted into priority areas. For example, a pupil premium is being introduced to support all low income children who need additional support at school, to help them achieve their full potential.

10. DEPUTY G.P. SOUTHERN OF ST. HELIER OF THE CHIEF MINISTER REGARDING INCOME INEQUALITY:

Question

Given that the Income Distribution Survey 2014/15 has revealed a growing income inequality gap (Gini coefficient up to 0.41 90 - 10 shares up to 19) over the past 5 years to the extent that Jersey is now a more unequal society than the U.K., what concerns, if any, does the Chief Minister have about this trend and what measures does he have under consideration in order to reduce this growing gap, and if none, why not?

Answer

The results of the Income Distribution Survey reflect the economic situation over a five-year period of the global financial crisis.

Average earnings declined in real terms between 2010 and 2012, and our economy shrank between 2009 and 2012. This trend has now reversed. The economy grew by 5% in 2014, there has been real earnings growth in each of the three years since 2012, and employment is now at a record high.

We need to continue to grow our economy for the benefit of all Islanders - delivering productivity improvements to support higher profits, higher wages, and improved living standards for Islanders from all walks of life.

Our incomes have grown by less that inflation since 2010, but are still 50% higher than the United Kingdom before housing costs, and 45% higher than the United Kingdom after housing costs. It is however, housing costs that present perhaps the greatest challenge.

Before housing costs, income inequality in Jersey is similar to the United Kingdom. This suggests that the impact of lower interest rates and increases in rents has had a greater impact in Jersey. This could be due to different home ownership rates, mortgage sizes and trends in the rental sector. This needs more evaluation before conclusions can be drawn.

The Housing Strategy clearly states that affordability is a key issue. It focuses on delivering more housing, both from the private and social sectors. It aims to achieve this by delivering the re-zoned sites and continuing to invest the £250 million bond in more and better housing as part of a sustainable funding model in which those in need are protected.

Ministers have developed a coherent plan for Jersey. That plan includes improvements in our town so it becomes a better place to live and work; transformed health and social services that can enhance our quality of life and look after an ageing population; an education system that delivers the best start in life for our young people so they can achieve their potential; and policies that manage demand on our resources while delivering productivity-led economic growth.

This plan, which works towards sustainable public finances, is a coherent approach to delivering the inclusive and prosperous society that ministers are working towards.

11. DEPUTY G.P. SOUTHERN OF ST. HELIER OF THE CHIEF MINISTER REGARDING THE FALL IN HOUSEHOLD INCOME:

Question

Given that figures revealed in the Income Distribution Survey 2014/15 show a fall in household incomes of 17% which, when combined with inflation at 13%, produces a reduction in purchasing power of 30% for those in the lowest quintile of the population, will the Chief Minister review the policies to promote social inclusion including benefit levels, minimum wage level, the transition to a living wage, and employment legislation concerning zero-hours contracts in order to urgently address the issue of financial hardship?

Answer

The Income Distribution Survey does not include information on purchasing power. It analyses income before and after housing costs, and reflects the economic situation during a period of global financial crisis. It provides valuable information as we seek to improve the incomes of all islanders, and needs careful consideration alongside other evidence.

For example, questions were asked in the 2014 Social Survey exploring how people were managing financially, which reported:

Households were asked how easy or difficult they find it to cope financially. One in four households (25%) reported finding it either quite' or very' difficult to cope financially, a proportion which is unchanged from 2010. However, when asked to compare against a year ago about one in three (29%) said their situation was a little' or much' worse, a proportion significantly lower than found in 2010 when two in five (40%) had felt their situation had worsened over the previous year, and indicating a slightly improved picture in relative terms of households coping financially.

This fits with other statistics, which show that average earnings declined in real terms between 2010 and 2012, and our economy shrank from 2009 to 2012. This is now reversing, with the economy having grown by 5% in 2014, real earnings growth every year since 2012, and employment at a record high. We need to continue to grow our economy, which will support social inclusion.

The strategic plan, as approved by the States earlier this year, explains how this will be done:

• Prioritising education and focusing on providing children with the best start in life to improve outcomes, for example, the pupil premium will support children with the highest needs.
• Investment in health and social services to improve people's health and well-being, including their mental and physical health.
• Continuing investment in infrastructure, including social housing, providing more and better housing, for example, incorporating higher insulation standards to reduce heating costs for tenants, and a better town in which to live and work.
• Improving productivity to deliver higher profits, higher wages, and more jobs for local people, while targeting migration toward higher value activities.

It is also important to ensure our benefits system protects the vulnerable as well as promoting work, and that we have appropriate minimum wage and employment protection.

This is why the Minister for Social Security welcomed the above earnings increase in the minimum wage recommended by the Employment Forum this year – delivering a minimum wage that is at its highest level compared to average earnings since it was introduced. The Minister also expressed optimism that as the economy improves that we will see greater increases in the minimum wage in the future.

An evidence-based approach is needed to ensure that increases in the minimum wage do not lead to reduced working hours or fewer jobs – neither of which would promote social inclusion. Detailed research has shown that 78% of people on zero hour contracts are satisfied with the type of

contract, and that less than 10% of people on zero hour contracts were in receipt of income support. It has also shown that the minimum wage, plus income support, already satisfies the requirement for a living wage in Jersey when compared with schemes elsewhere.

Ministers believe that the best way to reduce financial hardship and to promote social inclusion is to help people into work, to deliver earnings growth that is built on productivity growth, and to constrain price rises so people have more money in their pockets.

12. DEPUTY G.P. SOUTHERN OF ST. HELIER OF THE MINISTER FOR SOCIAL SECURITY REGARDING REDUCTIONS IN FUNDING FOR THE JERSEY EMPLOYMENT TRUST:

Question

Will the Minister inform members what reductions in funding for the Jersey Employment Trust have taken place, or will take place, which will result in reductions in the employment conditions for those vulnerable workers in sheltered employment with the Trust, along with the nature of those changes?

Do those measures live up to the Minister's promises to protect the vulnerable during her tenure? Answer

The Jersey Employment Trust (JET) is an independent organisation that receives a block grant from the Social Security Department. Alongside other independent organisations receiving grants from Social Security, the funding to JET needs to be considered in line with overall savings targets set for the Department. In 2015, Social Security will deliver £330,000 of savings, representing 2% of its non-benefit budget.   As part of that savings target, the grant provided to JET for 2015 has been maintained at the same level as the 2014 grant.  

Departmental cash limits for the next four years are set by the MTFP process.   As approved by the States Assembly earlier this year, savings of £90 million in non-benefit expenditure are required by 2019. Combined with the 2015 savings targets, this equates to 18% of net expenditure over five years. If decisions are made to protect specific areas of public spending then the impact on other States services will be even greater.   States approval has also already been received for a reduction in the Social Security departmental benefit budget of £9.9 million by 2019 and legal changes to achieve that reduced budget have been finalised.

Detailed plans for 2017-2019 will be finalised next year, but it has already been agreed that in 2016, Social Security will deliver a further £296,600 of savings – 1.8% of the departmental non- benefit budget. Departmental officers have a good working relationship with JET and discussions are ongoing in respect of the future level of the grant for the next four years.

JET is a Charitable Trust which is managed by an independent Board of Trustees.   It receives funding from a number of States departments and also raises income directly, from both fund raising and from commercial activities. The 2015-2019 JET business plan includes an aim to become "financially less dependent on the States of Jersey".   The Board of Trustees, on the advice of the senior management team at JET, provides direction on service provision and the maintenance and development of income generating activities. The Board takes decisions in the best interests of its clients and to ensure that the overarching aim of the Trust is being fulfilled.

The funding provided to JET from Social Security supports vulnerable people who have a disability or a long-term health condition with employment support and training. Other areas of departmental funding provide support to vulnerable people in other ways. Given the restrictions on the overall funding available to the Department, the way in which these services are provided must be made as cost-effective as possible, both for services provided directly and through third- party organisations. This will help to protect all the frontline services that are utilised by a wide variety of vulnerable groups.

Alongside other Ministers, I am committed to achieving the targets set in the MTFP, to ensure that the island returns to sustainable public finances and that essential growth is supported in the vital areas of health and education.

13. DEPUTY J.M. MACON OF ST. SAVIOUR OF THE MINISTER FOR EDUCATION, SPORT AND CULTURE REGARDING THE COST TO HIGHLANDS OF RUNNING DEGREE COURSES:

Question

In the answer to written question 1240/5(9062) tabled on 17th November 2015 the Minister referred to Highlands funding degree courses. Will the Minster set out the cost to Highlands of running those courses and detail the amount of money received via the higher education grants system?

Answer

The total cost of running higher education courses at Highlands College was £900,000 for the academic year 2014-15. This includes full-time and part-time lecturing costs, university exam charges and teaching materials.

Highlands received £491,000 from Student Finance for the academic year 2014-15. This related to tuition fees for 101 students. This, plus the fees received directly from other students, covers the direct costs of running higher education courses at Highlands. Overall, it is effectively cost-neutral to the college.

14. DEPUTY J.M. MACON OF ST. SAVIOUR OF THE MINISTER FOR EDUCATION, SPORT AND CULTURE REGARDING INCREASES IN TUITION FEES:

Question

In the answer to written question 1240/5(9061) tabled on 17th November 2015, it was suggested that the increase in tuition fees would be limited over the next few years. If this is not seen as a high priority by the Council of Ministers, what funding will be available, no matter how large or small, in order to meet those increases without the ability to bid for further monies in future years?

Answer

The UK green paper Fulfilling our potential' indicates that university fees could go up by inflation for universities that reach level 1 of the Teaching Excellence Framework (TEF) in future.

Inflation in UK is currently -0.1%. There is no indication from Universities UK or the department of Business, Innovation and Skills that fees will go up any more than this, but if all courses were affected by a 1% increase the cost would rise by £55,000 a year. It is likely this could be absorbed within the higher education budget of £9 million.

15. DEPUTY J.M. MACON OF ST. SAVIOUR OF THE CHIEF MINISTER REGARDING RECORDS RELATING TO THE APPOINTMENT OF THE CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER OF THE STATES OF JERSEY:

Question

Will the Chief Minister make available the Minutes or other records of the Jersey Appointments Commission meetings relating to the appointment of the Chief Executive Officer of the States of Jersey in 2011, 2012 and 2015?

Answer

The Chair of the Jersey Appointments Commission has been consulted over the release of minutes and/or other records as described. The Chair is content to release the relevant minutes with any redaction that may be necessary in order to comply with the Data Protection Law.

Accordingly, the minutes are being reviewed to see if redaction is necessary and will be provided once this has been completed.

16. DEPUTY J.M. MACON OF ST. SAVIOUR OF THE CHAIRMAN OF THE PRIVILEGES AND PROCEDURES COMMITTEE REGARDING TOURS OF THE STATES ASSEMBLY:

Question

Would the Committee please explain what action, if any, it is taking in order to engage the public by giving tours of the States Assembly and developing a better understanding in the adult population of the work of the States, including what impediments, if any, there are to this and how the Committee will overcome those?

Answer

As the Assembly is aware, staff at the States Greffe already run a very successful initiative involving local schoolchildren who visit the Chamber every Monday throughout the school year. There are also visits arranged on an ad hoc basis for secondary schools as well as students from Highlands College. At present adults wishing to undertake a tour of the Chamber as part of a club or interest group can do so by prior arrangement with the Greffier and his staff.

Consideration has been given to increasing the public's access to the States building but it is not as simple as it appears. It is an operational building and also houses the Bailiff 's Chambers and Judicial Greffe. The needs of the Courts have to be considered and unlike other Assemblies, where the operational areas are quite discreet, there is very little opportunity to segregate the public away from working areas. Furthermore there has been an increased use of the States Chamber as an additional Court facility and it is currently necessary for the Greffe to make arrangements with the Bailiff 's Judicial Secretary in advance in order to ensure access to the Chamber outside of the States meeting or Year 5 visits calendar. It would pose practical problems for the Judiciary if the Chamber was reserved on a regular basis during the working week specifically for tours. Under the present security guidelines, the Greffier is obliged to have an Usher present for any visit which takes place after office hours and to meet the associated overtime cost.

The Privileges and Procedures Committee is very keen to look at ways in which it can improve engagement with the public within its current budget and is certain that the introduction of web cam broadcasts early in 2016 will improve the public's understanding of the work undertaken by the States Assembly on their behalf. In addition a film allowing for a virtual' tour of the Chamber will soon be completed and uploaded to the statesassembly.je. website.

17. DEPUTY M.R. HIGGINS OF ST. HELIER OF THE CHIEF MINISTER REGARDING PAYMENTS MADE TO THE ACTING POLICE CHIEF WHO RESIGNED IN 2010:

Question

Will the Chief Minister advise members whether the Acting Police Chief who resigned during 2010 was paid any money other than the salary owed when he left his employment and, if so, will he detail the amounts and the reasons for the payments?

Answer

The employment of the Deputy Chief Officer of the States of Jersey Police terminated on 31st December 2010 by mutual agreement. He was paid the appropriate contractual sums due under his contract.

18. DEPUTY M.R. HIGGINS OF THE MINISTER FOR HOME AFFAIRS REGARDING INFORMATION LEAKED BY A FORMER DETECTIVE SUPERINTENDENT TO THE MEDIA:

Question

Will the Minister advise members whether the former Minister for Home Affairs or Acting Chief Officer of Jersey Police reported a Detective Superintendent who was seconded from Lancashire Police and who leaked information regarding Operation Rectangle to a U.K. journalist whilst a serving police officer, to (a) the Lancashire Constabulary or (b) to Operation Elveden, which investigated police leaks to the media, and if not why not?

Answer

The Detective Superintendent was seconded from the Lancashire Constabulary to the States of Jersey Police between 8th September 2008 and 27th August 2009 to undertake the role as Senior Investigating Officer to lead the Operation Rectangle investigation into historic child abuse.

He returned to his home Force (Lancashire) on 27th August 2009 until his retirement from the police service on 2nd September 2009.

Prior to leaving Jersey he gave a number of interviews to local Jersey media about his role.

On 3rd October 2009, the Mail on Sunday published an article which was critical of the Operation Rectangle investigation. The article contained references to a "leaked report by financial auditors" and details of costs and expenditure incurred during the investigation.

Reference is also made in the article to having spoken with the former Detective Superintendent seconded from the Lancashire Constabulary the night before publication including several quotes from him.

Whilst giving evidence before the Independent Jersey Care Inquiry on Friday 20th November 2015, the former Detective Superintendent admitted to providing information from an interim report compiled by an accountant. The former Detective Superintendent explained that he "believe[d] strongly that it was in the public interest that the evidence of not just poor financial management, but corrupt practices in financial management were made public because the information I was being given [was that] this information wasn't going to be made public".

This disclosure was made by former Detective Superintendent after he retired from the police service and without the knowledge of the States of Jersey Police. Such a disclosure would not have been authorised by the States of Jersey Police.

As former Detective Superintendent had retired from the police service by this time, he was beyond the reach of any disciplinary proceedings by the Lancashire Constabulary and as he was no longer a serving officer no referral was made to the Lancashire Constabulary by the States of Jersey Police.

Operation Elveden was established by the Metropolitan Police on 20th June 2011, almost 2 years after former Detective Superintendent retired from the police service. Operation Elveden was supervised by the Independent Police Complaints Commission. The terms of reference for the enquiry was "to investigate alleged criminal offences that police officers or public officials have accepted money for supplying information to journalists".

A referral was not made to the Metropolitan Police or the Independent Police Complaints Commission about the former Detective Superintendent's disclosure as neither had jurisdiction in Jersey as a Crown Dependency.

19. DEPUTY  M.R.  HIGGINS  OF  ST.  HELIER  OF  THE  MINISTER  FOR  HOME AFFAIRS  REGARDING  PAYMENTS  MADE  TO  A  FORMER  DETECTIVE SUPERINTENDENT FROM LANCASHIRE POLICE:

Question

Will the Minister advise members whether the Detective Superintendent from Lancashire Police who was seconded as the Senior Investigating Officer for Operation Rectangle during 2008 and 2009 was (a) paid any money from the States of Jersey when he left the Island after his secondment and for what purpose and (b) state how much and for what reasons he was paid after he left the Island?

Answer

No  payment  has  been  made  to  the  former  Detective  Superintendent  from  Lancashire  Police following his secondment to the States of Jersey Police. His salary was paid directly by the Lancashire Constabulary which was reimbursed directly to the Force from Jersey.

20. DEPUTY  M.R.  HIGGINS  OF  ST.  HELIER  OF  THE  CHIEF  MINISTER REGARDING  THE  NUMBER  OF  PEOPLE  ISSUED  WITH  REGISTRATION CARDS UNDER THE CONTROL OF HOUSING AND WORK (JERSEY) LAW 2012:

Question

Will the Chief Minister advise members of the total number of people who have been issued with registration cards under the Control of Housing and Work (Jersey) Law 2012 since the law came into effect, to date, breaking down the numbers into first time registrations, subsequent registrations and providing the nationality and country of origin of those registered?

Answer

The figures in Table 1 below show all those people applying for registration cards under the Control of Housing and Work (Jersey) Law 2012, since the law came into effect on 1 July 2013, reported by nationality.

Applying for a registration card does not mean people are new to the Island, as everyone needs a registration  card  when  moving  house  or  changing  jobs.  When  issuing  cards  we  ask  for  an applicant's nationality, not country of origin.

Table 1

Vietnamese 2 Bahamian 1 Barbadian 1 Iranian 1 Kazakhstani 1 Lebanese 1 Nigerian 1 Samoan 1 Ukrainian 1 Total 48,468

The figures in Table 2 below show all those people applying for registration cards under the Control of Housing and Work (Jersey) Law 2012, as new arrivals to the Island since the law came into effect on 1 July 2013, reported by nationality.

When issuing cards we ask for an applicant's nationality, not country of origin.

Table 2

21. DEPUTY  G.P.  SOUTHERN  OF  ST.  HELIER  OF  THE  CHIEF  MINISTER REGARDING SUPPORT FOR THE WORK OF THE GRACE TRUST AND OTHER CHARITABLE ORGANISATIONS:

Question

When discussing the work of the Grace Trust in delivering support on "in times of the most desperate need" on BBC Radio Jersey on Friday 20th November the Chief Minister stated that "we should not always expect that government will provide that support". What vision does the Chief Minister have for the role of government and charitable institutions in supporting the vulnerable and the poor in Jersey?

Answer

Charities and voluntary organisations provide support to vulnerable people in our community. That includes, but is not limited to, those whose vulnerabilities arise from their personal circumstances (such as age; health; mental well-being; substance misuse; life experiences) or are as a result of living on a low income.

These organisations are often well placed to reach those in need, in part because some vulnerable people mistrust government and also because the organisations can develop specialist services and adapt more quickly to changing needs.

Government supports such organisations through:

- direct support to individual organisations working in key areas of need

- helping charities and voluntary organisations to flourish - for instance by introducing the Charities Law, by ensuring the success of the Channel Islands Lottery

- providing relevant developmental support - for instance by holding information sharing events

Government provided grants and subsidies to hundreds of organisations in 2014. Some organisations, like Family Nursing and Home Care (£7million in 2014), Les Amis (£2.3million) and the Shelter Trust (£1.1million) are paid to provide valuable services for the community under partnership arrangements.

In addition to supporting such voluntary organisations, the government is responsible for the direct provision of services to vulnerable people (through benefits, mental health provision and social services) and for delivering policies that support vulnerable islanders.

The 2015 to 2018 Strategic Plan sets out a range of actions which aim to address some of the key causes of vulnerability. These include improving the housing stock and providing more social housing; delivering the 1001 Days agenda; bringing forward a disability strategy; investing in education and transforming health and social services for an ageing population.

4 Oral Questions The Bailiff :

We come to Oral Questions and I note that under Questions without notice it is the Minister for Education, Sport and Culture and the Chief Minister, so if the time given to the oral questions for the Chief Minister, in particular, and there are several for him, is cut short Members will be able to come back during Questions without notice.

1. Connétable C.H. Taylor of St. John of the Minister for Treasury and Resources regarding the annual cost of collecting Vehicle Emission Duty:

Could the Minister advise the Assembly what the annual cost of collecting Vehicle Emission Duty is and state what the manpower requirements associated with this are, including the number of full- time equivalent staff required?

Senator A.J.H. Maclean (The Minister for Treasury and Resources):

I would ask my Assistant Minister to deal with this matter. He has been intimately involved in drawing up proposals for V.E.D. (Vehicle Emissions Duty). I would just make it clear to Members, that is my other Assistant Minister. Clearly the one just appointed has not had time to consider such matters. But my other Assistant Minister is Deputy Noel.

Deputy E.J. Noel of St. Lawrence (Assistant Minister for Treasury and Resources -

rapporteur):

Vehicle Emissions Duty is an excise duty liable at the time a vehicle is first registered in the Island, imported to clear any liability and pay the V.E.D. to customs and immigration services in the same manner as all other excise custom duties and import G.S.T. (Goods and Services Tax), namely on the Customs and Excise System for Administration of Revenue known as C.E.S.A.R. Three customs and immigration officers are responsible for assisting the public with their online declarations and duty payments, including V.E.D. The cost of administering V.E.D. is not separately identified. Since the introduction of duty in 2010 no additional full-time equivalent staff have been required and the annual service budgets have not been increased. On a day-to-day basis there are 3 customs administration officers responsible for assisting the public with their declarations and duty payments, not V.E.D. specific. These officers deal with the customers' enquiries in the Customs public office as well as answering telephone mail enquiries. These officers also provide support to the Passport Office when required.