States Meeting Transcript - 23rd May 2023

STATES OF JERSEY OFFICIAL REPORT TUESDAY, 23rd MAY 2023

COMMUNICATIONS BY THE PRESIDING OFFICER ...................................... 10

1.1 Welcome to His Excellency the Lieutenant Governor .................................. 10 QUESTIONS ........................................................................................ 10

2. Written Questions .......................................................................... 10

1. Deputy M.B. Andrews of St. Helier North of the Minister for Treasury and Resources regarding Stamp Duty (WQ. 175/2023) .................................................. 10
2. Deputy M.B. Andrews of St. Helier North of The Minister for Health and Social Services regarding agency staff (WQ. 176/2023) .................................................. 11
3. Deputy M.B. Andrews of St. Helier North of the Minister for Housing and Communities

regarding a Digital Property Register (WQ.177/2023) ................................... 11

4. Deputy M.R. Scott of St. Brelade of the Chief Minister regarding the Our Hospital Political Oversight Group (WQ.178/2023) ........................................................ 12
5. M.R. Scott of St. Brelade of the Chief Minister regarding the Cabinet Office (WQ.179/2023) ........................................................................... 13
6. Deputy M.R. Scott of St. Brelade of the Minister for Treasury and Resources tabled regarding the Fiscal Policy Panel (WQ.180/2023) ....................................... 13
7. Deputy S.G. Luce of Grouville and St. Martin of the Minister for the Environment regarding planning applications (WQ.181/2023) ........................................ 15
8. Deputy G.P. Southern of St. Helier Central of the Minister for Social Security regarding the Zero Hours Contracts review by the Employment Forum (WQ.182/2023) .......... 16
9. Deputy R.J. Ward of St. Helier Central of the Minister for Children and Education regarding teachers leaving the profession (WQ.183/2023) .............................. 16
10. Deputy R.J. Ward of St. Helier Central of the Minister for Children and Education regarding female teaching staff leaving the profession (WQ.184/2023) ................. 17

11. Deputy R.J. Ward of St. Helier Central of the Minister for Infrastructure regarding Jersey Reds rugby club facility (WQ.185/2023) ................................................ 18
12. Deputy A. Howell of St. John , St. Lawrence and Trinity of the Minister for Infrastructure regarding the closure of La Motte Street (WQ.186/2023) ................................ 19
13. Deputy S.Y. Mézec of St. Helier South of the Chief Minister regarding conflicts of

interest in Council of Ministers meetings (WQ.187/2023)............................... 20

14. Deputy S.Y. Mézec of St. Helier South of the Minister for Housing and Communities regarding instructions on the inclusion of rent control in the rental white paper (WQ.188/2023) ........................................................................... 21
15. Deputy S.Y. Mézec of St. Helier South of the Minister for Treasury and Resources regarding the Upper Earnings Cap (WQ.189/2023) ...................................... 21

16. Deputy L.V. Feltham of St. Helier Central of the Minister for Housing and Communities regarding the Lodging Houses (Registration) (Jersey) Law 1962 and the Lodging Houses (General Provisions) (Jersey) Order 1962 (WQ.190/2023) .............................. 22
17. Deputy T.A. Coles of St. Helier South of the Minister for Home Affairs regarding States of Jersey Police Licensing Unit (WQ.191/2023) ......................................... 22
18. Deputy T.A. Coles of St. Helier South of the Minister for Home Affairs regarding alcohol related arrests (WQ.192/2023) ............................................................ 23
19. Deputy T.A. Coles of St. Helier South of the Minister for Health and Social Services regarding incidents against staff due to alcohol consumption (WQ.193/2023) .......... 24
20. Deputy M.B. Andrews of St. Helier North of the Chair of the States Employment Board regarding the length of service of Government employees (WQ.194/2023) ............. 25
21. Deputy L.J. Farnham of St. Ouen , St. Mary and St. Peter of the Minister for Treasury and Resources regarding the IT, financial and manpower implications of allowing combined, as well as independent, tax returns (WQ.195/2023) ...................................... 25
22. Deputy M.R. Scott of St. Brelade of the Chair of the States Employment Board regarding training materials in relation to ethical conduct (WQ.196/2023) ........................ 27
23. Deputy S.Y. Mézec of St. Helier South of the Minister for Economic Development, Tourism, Sport and Culture regarding costs of the recently commissioned review of sport in Jersey (WQ.197/2023) ................................................................. 28
24. Deputy G.P. Southern of St. Helier Central of the Minister for Treasury and Resources regarding the greening' of the States of Jersey investment portfolio (WQ.198/2023).. 28
25. Deputy M.B. Andrews of St. Helier North of the Minister for Treasury and Resources regarding stamp duty (WQ.199/2023) .................................................... 29
26. Deputy M.B. Andrews of St. Helier North of the Minister for Infrastructure regarding disabled parking spaces (WQ.200/2023) ................................................. 30
27. Deputy M.B. Andrews of St. Helier North of the Chief Minister regarding Our Hospital and Healthcare Facilities project expenditure (WQ.201/2023) .......................... 30
28. Deputy M.R. Scott of St. Brelade of the Chair of the Privileges and Procedures Committee regarding voter identification in elections (WQ.202/2023) .................. 31

29. Deputy M.R. Scott of St. Brelade of the Chair of the Privileges and Procedures Committee regarding a referral by PPC to the Commissioner for Standards (WQ.203/2023) ........................................................................... 32
30. Deputy M.B. Andrews of St. Helier North of the Minister for Health and Social Services regarding surgical procedures (WQ.204/2023)........................................... 32
31. Deputy M.B. Andrews of St. Helier North of the Minister for the Environment regarding rejected planning applications in the last five years (WQ.205/2023) .................... 33
32. Deputy M.B. Andrews of St. Helier North of the Minister for Treasury and Resources regarding the connection of homes to mains water by Jersey Water (WQ.206/2023) ... 34
33. Deputy P.M. Bailhache of St. Clement of the Chief Minister regarding improving Jersey's resilience (WQ.207/2023) ................................................................ 34
34. Deputy Sir P.M. Bailhache of St. Clement of the Minister for Health and Social Services regarding the Memorandum of Understanding in relation to the cultivation of cannabis (WQ.208/2023) ........................................................................... 36
35. Deputy C.D . Curtis of St. Helier Central of the Chair of the States Employment Board regarding the Jersey Appointment Commission's Guidelines for recruitment (WQ.209/2023) ........................................................................... 36
36. Deputy T.A. Coles of St. Helier South of the Minister for Infrastructure regarding the Town Link Bus (Route 20) (WQ.210/2023) .............................................. 37
37. Deputy T.A. Coles of St. Helier South of the Minister for Housing and Communities regarding the maximum occupancy per unit of Andium Homes accommodation (WQ.211/2023) ........................................................................... 38

38. Deputy A. Howell of St. John , St. Lawrence and Trinity of the Minister for Health and Social Services regarding qualifications and occupational competence of locum and agency staff (WQ.212/2023).............................................................. 38
39. Deputy R.J. Ward of St. Helier Central of the Minister for Social Security regarding carpets and carpet suppliers (WQ.213/2023) ............................................. 40
40. Deputy R.J. Ward of St. Helier Central of the Chair of the States Employment Board regarding States employees' long-term absence (WQ.214/2023) ........................ 41

42. Deputy G.P. Southern of St. Helier Central of the Minister for Social Security regarding zero-hour contracts in Jersey (WQ.216/2023) ............................................ 42
43. Deputy G.P. Southern of St. Helier Central of the Minister for Social Security regarding a 48-hour per week working limit for zero-hour contracts (WQ.217/2023) ............... 42
44. Deputy L.V. Feltham of St. Helier Central of the Minister for Housing and Communities regarding the public consultation Improving Residential Tenancies in Jersey – Residential Tenancy Law Reform proposals' (WQ.218/2023) .......................... 43
45. Deputy L.V. Feltham of St. Helier Central of the Assistant Chief Minister regarding the inclusivity and accessibility of Government communications (WQ.219/2023) .......... 45
46. Deputy L.V. Feltham of St. Helier Central of the Minister for Housing and Communities regarding improving Government communications for the Island's communities (WQ.220/2023) ........................................................................... 46
47. Deputy R.S. Kovacs of St. Saviour of the Minister for Treasury and Resources regarding Income Tax forecasts (WQ.221/2023).................................................... 47
48. Deputy R.S. Kovacs of St. Saviour of the Minister for Treasury and Resources regarding

the increase in mortgage rates (WQ.222/2023) .......................................... 48

49. Deputy R.S. Kovacs of St. Saviour of the Minister for Economic Development, Tourism, Sport and Culture regarding the Tourism Development Fund (WQ.223/2023) .......... 49
50. Deputy G.P. Southern of St. Helier Central of the Minister for Home Affairs regarding updating the Matrimonial Causes (Jersey) Law 1949 (WQ.224/2023) .................. 50
51. Deputy C.D . Curtis of St. Helier Central of the Chair of the States Employment Board regarding the consideration given to Standard 3 of the Jersey Appointment Commission's guidelines (WQ.225/2023) ............................................... 50
52. Deputy C.D . Curtis of St. Helier Central of the Chair of the States Employment Board regarding the Jersey Appointment Commission's guidelines for the recruitment of the Director General for Children, Young People, Education and Skills (WQ.226/2023)... 51

3. Oral Questions ............................................................................. 51

1. Deputy R.J. Ward of St. Helier Central of the Minister for Infrastructure regarding contingency planning for increased traffic flows arising from the movement of gym facilities to Springfield Stadium (OQ.97/2023) .......................................... 51

Deputy T. Binet of St. Saviour (The Minister for Infrastructure): .............................. 51

1. Deputy R.J. Ward : ........................................................................ 51
2. Connétable A.S. Crowcroft of St. Helier : ................................................ 52
3. The Connétable of St. Helier : ............................................................ 52
4. Deputy S.Y. Mézec of St. Helier South : .................................................. 52
5. Deputy G.P. Southern of St. Helier Central :.............................................. 52
6. Deputy L.V. Feltham of St. Helier Central : .............................................. 53
7. Deputy L.V. Feltham : .................................................................... 53
8. Deputy R.J. Ward : ........................................................................ 53

2. Deputy C.S. Alves of St. Helier Central of the Minister for Infrastructure regarding the planning and assessments undertaken ahead of the closure of the gym at Fort Regent and the relocation of facilities to Springfield Stadium (OQ.105/2023) ........ 53

Deputy L. Stephenson of St. Mary , St. Ouen and St. Peter (Assistant Minister for Infrastructure

- rapporteur): .............................................................................. 54

1. Deputy C.S. Alves : ....................................................................... 54

2. Deputy R.J. Ward : ........................................................................ 54
3. Deputy R.J. Ward : ........................................................................ 55
4. Deputy C.D . Curtis of St. Helier Central : ................................................ 55
5. Deputy M. Tadier of St. Brelade : ........................................................ 55
6. Deputy L.V. Feltham : .................................................................... 56
7. Deputy L.V. Feltham : .................................................................... 56
8. Deputy C.S. Alves : ....................................................................... 56

3. Deputy A. Howell of St. John , St. Lawrence and Trinity of the Minister for the Environment regarding the prospect of reinstating a dedicated Planning Office. (OQ.93/2023) ............................................................................... 56

Deputy J. Renouf of St. Brelade (The Minister for the Environment): ......................... 56

1. Deputy A. Howell : ........................................................................ 57
2. Deputy M.B. Andrews of St. Helier North : .............................................. 57
3. Deputy M.B. Andrews : ................................................................... 57
4. Deputy L.V. Feltham : .................................................................... 58
5. Deputy L.V. Feltham : .................................................................... 58
6. Deputy M.R. Scott of St. Brelade : ........................................................ 58
7. Connétable D.W. Mezbourian of St. Lawrence : .......................................... 58
8. The Connétable of St. Lawrence : ........................................................ 59
9. Deputy A. Howell : ........................................................................ 59

4. Deputy M.B. Andrews of the Minister for Treasury and Resources regarding the Income Tax contribution of High Value Residents (OQ.90/2023) ...................... 59

Deputy I.J. Gorst of St. Mary , St. Ouen and St. Peter (The Minister for Treasury and

Resources):................................................................................ 59

1. Deputy M.B. Andrews : ................................................................... 59
2. Deputy M. Tadier :........................................................................ 60
3. Deputy M. Tadier :........................................................................ 60
4. Deputy G.P. Southern : .................................................................... 60
5. Deputy G.P. Southern : .................................................................... 60
6. Connétable D. Johnson of St. Mary : ...................................................... 61
7. Deputy S.Y. Mézec : ...................................................................... 61
8. Deputy S.Y. Mézec : ...................................................................... 61

5. Deputy G.P. Southern of the Minister for Social Security regarding the operation and regulation of zero-hour contracts (OQ.103/2023) ........................................ 62

Deputy E. Millar (The Minister for Social Security): .......................................... 62

1. Deputy G.P. Southern : .................................................................... 62
2. Deputy R.J. Ward : ........................................................................ 62
3. Deputy R.J. Ward : ........................................................................ 62
4. Deputy L.V. Feltham : .................................................................... 62
5. Deputy L.V. Feltham : .................................................................... 63
6. Deputy G.P. Southern : .................................................................... 63

6. Deputy L.V. Feltham of the Minister for Social Security regarding the Community Cost Bonus (OQ.99/2023) .................................................................. 63

Deputy E. Millar (The Minister for Social Security): .......................................... 63

1. Deputy L.V. Feltham : .................................................................... 63
2. Deputy R.S. Kovacs of St. Saviour :...................................................... 64
3. Deputy G.P. Southern : .................................................................... 64
4. Deputy L.V. Feltham : .................................................................... 64

7. Deputy S.Y. Mézec of the Minister for Treasury and Resources regarding the planning application submitted by the States of Jersey Development Company for South Hill (OQ.101/2023) .................................................................. 65

Deputy I.J. Gorst (The Minister for Treasury and Resources): ................................. 65

1. Deputy S.Y. Mézec : ...................................................................... 65
2. Deputy A. Curtis of St. Clement : ......................................................... 65
3. Deputy A. Curtis : ......................................................................... 66
4. Deputy M. Tadier :........................................................................ 66
5. Deputy M. Tadier :........................................................................ 66
6. The Connétable of St. Helier : ............................................................ 67
7. The Connétable of St. Helier : ............................................................ 67
8. Deputy S.G. Luce of Grouville and St. Martin : .......................................... 67
9. Deputy S.G. Luce : ........................................................................ 67
10. Deputy S.Y. Mézec : ................................................................... 68

8. Deputy M. Tadier of the Chief Minister regarding the advice received to support the decision not to proceed with an independent review of the circumstances surrounding the unlawful search of premises (OQ.95/2023) .......................................... 68

Deputy I.J. Gorst (The Minister for Treasury and Resources - rapporteur): ................... 68

1. Deputy M. Tadier :........................................................................ 69
2. Deputy R.J. Ward : ........................................................................ 69
3. Deputy R.J. Ward : ........................................................................ 69

4. Deputy M. Tadier :........................................................................ 70

9. Deputy S.G. Luce of the Chief Minister regarding the strengthening of Jersey's resilience to unforeseen events (OQ.92/103).............................................. 70

Deputy K.L. Moore of St. Mary , St. Ouen and St. Peter (The Chief Minister): ................ 70

1. Deputy S.G. Luce : ........................................................................ 71
2. Deputy M.R. Scott : ....................................................................... 71
3. Deputy M.R. Scott : ....................................................................... 71
4. Deputy S.G. Luce : ........................................................................ 71

10. Deputy S.Y. Mézec of the Minister for Housing and Communities regarding the provision of support to first-time buyers (OQ.102/2023)................................ 72

Deputy D. Warr of St. Helier South (The Minister for Housing and Communities): .......... 72

1. Deputy S.Y. Mézec : ................................................................... 72
2. Deputy M. Tadier : ..................................................................... 72
3. Deputy M. Tadier : ..................................................................... 73
4. Deputy L.V. Feltham :.................................................................. 73
5. Deputy L.V. Feltham :.................................................................. 73
6. Connétable K.C. Lewis of St. Saviour : ................................................ 74
7. Deputy S.Y. Mézec : ................................................................... 74

11. Deputy A. Howell of the Minister for Economic Development, Tourism, Sport and Culture regarding the operation of the Jersey Lifeboat Association's vessel (OQ.94/2023) ............................................................................... 74

Deputy K.F. Morel of St. John , St. Lawrence and Trinity (The Minister for Economic

Development, Tourism, Sport and Culture): ............................................. 74

1. Deputy A. Howell : .................................................................... 74
2. Connétable M.K. Jackson of St. Brelade : ............................................. 75
3. Deputy P.M. Bailhache of St. Clement : ............................................... 75
4. Deputy P.M. Bailhache : ............................................................... 75

12. Deputy C.S. Alves of the Minister for Health and Social Services regarding the long- term plan for the old Les Quennevais School site in delivering hospital facilities (OQ.106/2023) .............................................................................. 76

Deputy K. Wilson of St. Clement (The Minister for Health and Social Services): ............ 76

1. Deputy C.S. Alves : .................................................................... 76
2. Deputy M. Tadier : ..................................................................... 76
3. Deputy M. Tadier : ..................................................................... 76
4. The Connétable of St. Brelade : ........................................................ 77
5. The Connétable of St. Brelade : ........................................................ 77
6. Deputy R.J. Ward : ..................................................................... 77
7. Deputy R.J. Ward : ..................................................................... 78
8. Deputy L.V. Feltham :.................................................................. 78
9. Deputy L.V. Feltham :.................................................................. 78
10. Deputy C.S. Alves :.................................................................. 79

13. Deputy M.B. Andrews of the Minister for Treasury and Resources regarding the introduction of profit-sharing legislation. (OQ.91/2023) ................................ 79

Deputy I.J. Gorst (The Minister for Treasury and Resources): ................................. 79 3.13.1 Deputy M.B. Andrews : ................................................................ 79

14. Deputy G.P. Southern of the Minister for Social Security regarding the number of single parents on Income Support (OQ.104/2023) ....................................... 80

Deputy E. Millar (The Minister for Social Security): .......................................... 80 3.15 Deputy L.V. Feltham of the Assistant Chief Minister regarding her policy position in relation to population and migration (OQ.100/2023) .................................... 80

Deputy L. Stephenson (Assistant Chief Minister): ............................................. 80

1. Deputy L.V. Feltham :.................................................................. 80
2. Deputy R.J. Ward : ..................................................................... 81
3. Deputy R.J. Ward : ..................................................................... 81
4. Deputy L.V. Feltham :.................................................................. 81

16. Deputy M. Tadier of the Minister for Housing and Communities regarding the creation of a Digital Property Register of beneficial ownership (OQ.96/2023) ........ 82

Deputy K.L. Moore (The Chief Minister- rapporteur): ......................................... 82

1. Deputy M. Tadier : ..................................................................... 82
2. Deputy R.J. Ward : ..................................................................... 82
3. Deputy R.J. Ward : ..................................................................... 83

17. Deputy R.J. Ward of the Minister for the Environment regarding the replacement of oil-fired boilers (OQ.98/2023) ............................................................. 83

Deputy J. Renouf (The Minister for the Environment): ........................................ 83

1. Deputy R.J. Ward : ..................................................................... 83
2. Deputy M. Tadier : ..................................................................... 84
3. Deputy M. Tadier : ..................................................................... 84

4. Deputy L.V. Feltham :.................................................................. 85
5. Deputy L.V. Feltham :.................................................................. 85
6. Deputy R.J. Ward : ..................................................................... 85

4. Questions to Ministers without notice - The Minister for Health and Social Services 86

1. Deputy G.P. Southern : .................................................................... 86 Deputy K. Wilson (The Minister for Health and Social Services):............................. 86

1. Deputy G.P. Southern : .................................................................... 86
   2. Deputy A. Howell : ........................................................................ 86

4.2.1 Deputy A. Howell : ........................................................................ 87

3. Deputy L.J. Farnham of St. Mary , St. Ouen and St. Peter : ............................... 87

4.3.1 Deputy L.J. Farnham : .................................................................... 88

4. Deputy B. Ward of St. Clement : .......................................................... 88

4.4.1 Deputy B. Ward : .......................................................................... 88

5. Deputy M.R. Scott : ....................................................................... 88

4.5.1 Deputy M.R. Scott : ....................................................................... 89

6. Deputy B.B. de S.DV.M. Porée of St. Helier South : ..................................... 89

5. Questions to Ministers without notice - The Minister for Infrastructure .............. 90

1. Deputy A. Howell : ........................................................................ 90 Deputy T. Binet (The Minister for Infrastructure): ............................................. 90
2. Deputy T.A. Coles of St. Helier South : .................................................. 90

5.2.1 Deputy T.A. Coles : ....................................................................... 90

3. Deputy L.J. Farnham : .................................................................... 91

5.3.1 Deputy L.J. Farnham : .................................................................... 91

4. The Connétable of St. Brelade : ........................................................... 91

5.4.1 The Connétable of St. Brelade : ........................................................... 91

5. Deputy S.Y. Mézec : ...................................................................... 91
6. Connétable R. Honeycombe of St. Ouen : ................................................ 92
7. Deputy S.G. Luce : ........................................................................ 92
8. Deputy L.V. Feltham : .................................................................... 92

5.8.1 Deputy L.V. Feltham : .................................................................... 92

9. The Connétable of St. Lawrence : ........................................................ 93

5.9.1 The Connétable of St. Lawrence : ........................................................ 93

10. Deputy M. Tadier :........................................................................ 93

5.10.1 Deputy M. Tadier : ..................................................................... 93

6. Questions to Ministers without notice - The Chief Minister ............................ 94

1. The Connétable of St. Saviour : ........................................................... 94 Deputy K.L. Moore (The Chief Minister): ...................................................... 94

1. The Connétable of St. Saviour : ........................................................... 94
   2. Connétable K. Shenton-Stone of St. Martin : ............................................. 94

6.2.1 The Connétable of St. Martin : ............................................................ 94

3. Deputy L.V. Feltham : .................................................................... 94

6.3.1 Deputy L.V. Feltham : .................................................................... 95

4. Deputy R.J. Ward : ........................................................................ 95

6.4.1 Deputy R.J. Ward : ........................................................................ 95

5. Deputy M.R. Scott : ....................................................................... 95

6.5.1 Deputy M.R. Scott : ....................................................................... 96

6. Deputy B. Ward : .......................................................................... 96

6.6.1 Deputy B. Ward : .......................................................................... 96

7. Deputy T.A. Coles : ....................................................................... 97

6.7.1 Deputy T.A. Coles : ....................................................................... 97

8. Deputy M. Tadier :........................................................................ 97

6.8.1 Deputy M. Tadier :........................................................................ 97

LUNCHEON ADJOURNMENT PROPOSED ................................................... 97 LUNCHEON ADJOURNMENT .................................................................. 98 PUBLIC BUSINESS ................................................................................ 98

7. Draft Commissioner for Children and Young People (Amendment of Law) (Jersey) Regulations 202- (P.12/2023) .............................................................. 98

1. Deputy K.L. Moore (The Chief Minister): ............................................... 98

1. Deputy S.Y. Mézec : ...................................................................... 99
2. Deputy C.D . Curtis : ...................................................................... 99
3. Deputy R.J. Ward : ...................................................................... 100
4. Deputy M.R. Scott : ...................................................................... 100
5. Deputy K.L. Moore :..................................................................... 100

2. Deputy K.L. Moore :..................................................................... 103

1. Deputy M. Tadier :....................................................................... 103
2. Deputy M.R. Scott : ...................................................................... 104
3. Deputy K.L. Moore :..................................................................... 104

3. Deputy K.L. Moore :..................................................................... 106

8. Draft Probate (Amendment) (Jersey) Law 202- (P.16/2023) .......................... 107

1. Deputy K.L. Moore (The Chief Minister): .............................................. 107

1. Deputy S.Y. Mézec : ..................................................................... 110
2. The Connétable of St. Mary :............................................................ 110
3. Deputy G.P. Southern : .................................................................. 110
4. Deputy K.L. Moore :..................................................................... 111

2. Deputy K.L. Moore :..................................................................... 113

9. Draft Control of Housing and Work (Residential and Employment Status) (Amendment No. 2) (Jersey) Regulations 202- (P.20/2023) ............................ 113

9.1 Deputy L. Stephenson (Assistant Chief Minister - rapporteur): ........................ 113

1. Deputy S.Y. Mézec : ..................................................................... 114
2. Deputy M.R. Scott : ...................................................................... 115
3. Deputy L.M.C. Doublet of St. Saviour : ................................................. 115
4. Deputy A. Curtis : ........................................................................ 115
5. Deputy M.B. Andrews : .................................................................. 116
6. Deputy I. Gardiner of St. Helier North : ................................................. 117
7. Deputy L. Stephenson : .................................................................. 117

10. Amendment to Standing Orders - remote participation in States meetings (P.21/2023) ............................................................................................. 120

1. The Connétable of St. Martin (Chair, Privileges and Procedures Committee):......... 121

1. Deputy S.M. Ahier of St. Helier North : .............................................. 122
2. Deputy M.R. Scott :................................................................... 122
3. Deputy R.J. Ward : .................................................................... 123
4. Deputy M. Tadier : .................................................................... 124
5. Deputy J. Renouf : .................................................................... 126
6. Deputy M.R. Ferey of St. Saviour :................................................... 127

7. Deputy L.V. Feltham :................................................................ 127
8. Deputy A. Curtis : .................................................................... 128
9. Deputy L.M.C. Doublet : ............................................................. 129

2. Amendment to Standing Orders - remote participation in States meetings (P.21/2023)

- reference back ........................................................................... 131

1. Deputy M. Tadier : .................................................................... 131
2. Deputy J. Renouf : .................................................................... 132
3. Deputy S.G. Luce : .................................................................... 132
4. Deputy M.R. Scott :................................................................... 132
5. Deputy T.A. Coles :................................................................... 132
6. Deputy R.J. Ward : .................................................................... 133
7. Deputy K.F. Morel : .................................................................. 134
8. The Connétable of St. Martin : ........................................................ 134
9. The Connétable of St. Mary : ......................................................... 134
10. Deputy A. Curtis : .................................................................. 135
11. Deputy M. Tadier : ................................................................. 135

ARRANGEMENT OF PUBLIC BUSINESS FOR FUTURE MEETINGS ................... 136

11. The Connétable of St. Martin (Chair, Privileges and Procedures Committee):......... 136

ADJOURNMENT ................................................................................. 137

[9:30]

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

The Bailiff :

1.1  Welcome to His Excellency the Lieutenant Governor

Members, I am sure, would wish to join me in welcoming His Excellency the Lieutenant Governor to the Chamber this morning. [Approbation]

QUESTIONS

2.  Written Questions

1. Deputy M.B. Andrews of St. Helier North of the Minister for Treasury and Resources regarding Stamp Duty (WQ. 175/2023)

Question

Will the Minister advise how much Stamp Duty has been raised during the first quarter of 2023 within each applicable area?

Answer

In Q1 2023, the following amounts of Stamp Duty were collected:

Stamp Duty - Other is predominately Acknowledgements but may also include:

• Proprietary Rights - Gift / Transfer
• Proprietary Rights - Sale
• Rights - Sale
• Sale/Transfer of Fief
• Transaction
• Transaction and Boundary Agreement
• Under - Lease - Gift / Transfer
• Under - Lease - Realty
• Undivided Share - Gift / Transfer

• Undivided Share - Sale
• Lease-Realty Rights

2. Deputy M.B. Andrews of St. Helier North of The Minister for Health and Social Services regarding agency staff (WQ. 176/2023)

Question

Will the Minister advise how much of her departmental expenditure has been spent on agency staff during the first quarter of 2023?

Answer

I have been advised by Health and Community Services that the total spend on agency staffing during the first quarter of 2023 is £5,357,277.

3. Deputy M.B. Andrews of St. Helier North of the Minister for Housing and Communities regarding a Digital Property Register (WQ.177/2023)

Question

Given his response to Oral Question 113/2022 which confirmed the completion of the commissioned report in relation to a Digital Property Register, will the Minister advise what work, if any, has been undertaken to implement a digital register for beneficial ownership, and how soon the register will be fully implemented?

Answer

The report commissioned by the last Government has been provided to the Scrutiny Panel and published in the reports section of gov.je.

The report indicated significant practical challenges with maintaining a digital register of the ultimate beneficial ownership of residential and commercial properties, especially for properties held by companies, where a transfer of shares can take place without transacting in the court. The report indicated that this would involve very significant cost. As such, it may be that there are better ways to analyse housing ownership composition and trends rather than creating (and crucially, maintaining) a register of the ultimate beneficial ownership of all properties.

Separately, the Chief Minister has committed to a review of extant decisions of the Assembly, so they can be included in the 2024 Government Programme and progressed accordingly, or otherwise brought to the Assembly for rescindment.

This will include determining how to proceed on a digital register of property ownership. Generally, the tracker being developed by the Privileges and Procedures Committee will assist in this regard.

In the meantime, no further specific work has been done, and we do not have an estimate for implementation. Instead, the focus of the government is clearly outlined in the 2023 Ministerial Plans and the legislative programme.

4. Deputy M.R. Scott of St. Brelade of the Chief Minister regarding the Our Hospital Political Oversight Group (WQ.178/2023)

Question

With reference to the Chief Minister's letter to the Corporate Services Scrutiny Panel dated 20th April 2023, will the Chief Minister provide the following information –

1. who were the members of Our Hospital Political Oversight Group (OHPOG') on 28th September 2022 and which of these were present at the OHPOG meeting on that date (the OHPOG Meeting'), other than the Chief Minister, the Constable of St. John and the Infrastructure Minister;
2. what was her disagreement with the Infrastructure Minister on policy matters related to the OHPOG meeting to which the Chief Minister's letter to the Infrastructure Minister dated 7th October referred;
3. a copy of the minutes of the OHPOG meeting and all other meetings of the OPHOG as reconstituted during her term of office;
4. whether the Council of Ministers meeting on 28th September 2022, took place after the OHPOG Meeting and included discussion of any events that took place at the OHPOG;
5. what was the nature of the disagreement regarding the way in which the Chief Executive's departure had been handled; and
6. what steps, if any, does the Chief Minister propose to take to address the concerns expressed by the Infrastructure Minister?

Answer

1. The members of the OHPOG as of 28 September 2022 were the Chief Minister, the Minister for Health and Community Services, the Minister for Infrastructure and the Minister for Treasury and Resources. All were present at the meeting, although the Minister for Treasury and Resources was not in attendance for the first 50 minutes of the meeting.
2. I do not recall a specific policy disagreement in the OHPOG on 28 September, nor is one referred to in the minutes. My letter to the Minister for Infrastructure refers to the generality of policy disagreements from time-to-time being natural and understandable, and indeed, often healthy as Ministers are not always expected to be of the same mind on all subjects. Good policy is aided by good quality debate.
3. All records, including minutes, are available to the relevant Scrutiny Panels.
4. There was not a Council of Ministers meeting on the 28 September. There was a meeting that week on 27September, which did not consider the hospital or health care facilities.
5. The position of the Minister for Infrastructure is well documented and outlined in the published correspondence.
6. I am committed to continuing the development of the Council of Ministers as a team, which includes focused time exploring how we work, and any improvements we can make, supporting a high performance, mutually supportive, and appropriately challenging environment at the most senior levels of government. I am committed to continual learning and improvement. This will include a programme of work facilitated by a local specialist.

5. M.R. Scott of St. Brelade of the Chief Minister regarding the Cabinet Office (WQ.179/2023) Question

In relation to the Cabinet Office, will the Chief Minister –

1. confirm that she did not consult with the Council of Ministers or seek its prior approval of her selection of the Ministers and Assistant Ministers as members of her Cabinet Office as identified on the gov.je website;
2. advise the date and the way she informed all members of the Council of Members of their identity; and
3. advise what specific criteria, if any, she used to identify the individuals selected as leaders in forensic, evidence-based, challenging and daring thought leadership' above any other members of the Council of Ministers?

Answer

1. Ministers are appointed by the States Assembly to specific portfolios. Assistant Ministers are appointed in accordance with Article 25 of the States of Jersey Law 2005. The Cabinet Office was created through operational change. No Ministerial appointments to it have been made.
2. Ministers were appointed by the States Assembly on 11th July 2022. The Chief Minister's consent for the appointment of Assistant Ministers was confirmed by Ministerial Decision on 22nd July 2022. In respect of the Chief Minister, Deputy Stephenson was subsequently appointed as an Assistant Chief Minister on 24th August 2022 and Deputies Gorst and Millar were appointed as Assistant Chief Ministers on 7th February 2023.
3. I have sought to utilise the strengths of those who I have appointed as Assistant Chief Ministers, as well as seeking to develop the skills and experience of my ministerial team.

I am aware of concerns among States Members as to the formation of the Cabinet Office. I wish to re-emphasise that no separate ministerial structure for the Cabinet Office has been established or is in place.

6. Deputy M.R. Scott of St. Brelade of the Minister for Treasury and Resources tabled regarding the Fiscal Policy Panel (WQ.180/2023)

Question

Will the Minister –

1. advise what evidence, and what form of modelling, Jersey's Fiscal Policy Panel used to support its forecast of inflation and interest rates for Jersey over the last three years;
2. provide a comparison of the Panel's inflation and interest rates rise forecasts for Jersey for the last three years with the actual increases that took place in Jersey; and
3. advise whether the evidence supports a conclusion that the Panel has given inadequate consideration to US central bank rates as a potential driver of the worldwide rates and inflation?

Answer

1. Jersey's Fiscal Policy Panel uses all available and relevant evidence to inform its forecast of inflation. This includes statistics released by Statistics Jersey, statistics released by the Office for National Statistics (the UK's statistics agency) and reports and forecasts produced by HM Treasury and the Bank of England. Other available evidence - such as IMF and OECD forecasts – are also used.

Further, linear regression modelling is used with a number of indicators, most of which are mentioned previously, as well layering knowledge over the top. The FPP does not forecast interest rates: it uses data published by the Bank of England on the markets expectations for interest rates.

2. The table below summarises the FPP forecasts for inflation (averaged for each year) made at different points in time. The shaded cells show actual inflation. A working example is given below the table. As the table show, during stable periods the projections are highly accurate. The recent instability in the world economy has led to these projections decreasing in accuracy.

It should also be noted that the forecasting is done in both RPIX and RPI.

So, in March 2019 the FPP forecast 2020 RPI of 2.6%; in September 2019 they revised this forecast to 2.4%; in March 2020 they revised this forecast to 1.3%; and in October 2020 (when they would have had 2020 Q1 and Q2 RPI data) they left their 2020 forecast unchanged at 1.3%. RPI inflation for 2020 was 1.3%.

The FPP does not forecast interest rates.

3. The US Central Bank (The Federal Reserve Bank) targets an US inflation rate of 2% and uses monetary policy, including interest rates to deliver this. In the UK, the UK Government has set an inflation target of 2% and has charged the Bank of England to use monetary policy (including interest rates) to achieve the Government's target. Other central banks – including the European Central Bank - also have inflation targets. These central banks all set interest

rates independently to bring inflation down (or up) to target in their country and in setting their interest rates will take into account a range of economic and monetary data. In setting their interest rates, central banks will make an assessment of the global threats to inflation. However, there is no direct link between interest rates set by one, or more, Central Bank, and the interest rate set by another.

7. Deputy S.G. Luce of Grouville and St. Martin of the Minister for the Environment regarding planning applications (WQ.181/2023)

Question

Will the Minister confirm the average length of time for the following processes over the last 12- month period –

1. validation of planning applications;
2. determination of minor planning applications following validation; and
3. determination of major planning applications following validation?

Answer

1. The average time for the end-to-end process for the validation of all minor and major planning applications for this rolling year since 1st of April 2022 to 28th April 2023, was 7 weeks.

Note: This data sample includes 1,251 planning applications, ranging from validation within 3 working days to 29 weeks. In accordance with the policy (as per the website) Planning application process (gov.je) the Department registered all applications, following receipt of the correct information and fee, within 3 working days.

2. It is not possible to extract true and accurate data to provide the average time for determination of a minor planning application for the last 12 months.
3. It is not possible to extract true and accurate data to provide the average time for determination of a major planning application for the last 12 months.

Whilst it is not possible to extract true and accurate data from the current systems to produce an average, the Department does measure how many applications are determined within the target timeframe of 13 weeks for major and 8 weeks for minor applications (as per the website) Planning application process (gov.je)

Of the 1,478 applications determined this rolling year since 1st of April 2022 to 28th April 2023, 265 have been refused, 1,107 have been approved. The remainder have been withdrawn or are awaiting planning obligation agreements to be signed, etc.

For major applications, 42% have been determined within target timeframe of 13 weeks. For minor applications, 63% have been determined within target timeframe of 8 weeks.

Looking forward, the Regulatory Improvement of Digital Assets Project will provide live reporting of the performance of Regulatory functions such as the planning applications process.

8. Deputy G.P. Southern of St. Helier Central of the Minister for Social Security regarding the Zero Hours Contracts review by the Employment Forum (WQ.182/2023)

Question

Following the Minister's response to Written Question 129/2023, in which she confirmed that the Employment Forum had completed its review of Zero Hours Contracts and that the final report would be published shortly, will the Minister commit to publishing the report, in full, by 2nd May 2023 or, failing that, release it to the Health and Social Security Scrutiny Panel for its consideration?

Answer

The Employment Forum's report has been published today (2nd May 2023).

9. Deputy R.J. Ward of St. Helier Central of the Minister for Children and Education regarding teachers leaving the profession (WQ.183/2023)

Question

On 18th April 2023 the Minister confirmed that "36 teachers left in the 12 months to the end of March 2023, and this is 4.2 per cent of teacher workforce of 855.", contrasting with the response to a Freedom of Information request published 8th March 2023, which showed that 445 teachers have left the profession over the period 2019 to 2022, an average of 111.25 of teachers per year; further to these reported figures, will the Minister advise –

1. whether it is expected that a similar number of teachers will leave the profession in 2023;
2. whether the average leaving rate between 2019 and 2022 was 12.54%, which is above the average leaving rate for general States of Jersey employees and significantly above the 4.2% stated for the 12 months to March 2023; and
3. any disparities identified between the figure provided in the Assembly and the Freedom of Information response?

Answer

1. It is too early to give an accurate prediction for the total amount of teachers who may leave their roles in Government provided schools this year as the final resignation deadline for this academic year is 31 May.
2. The average leaving rate for teachers between 2019 and 2022 is detailed below:

For completeness the twelve months to March 2023, as quoted above, is also included.

3. My above quoted response to the Assembly, and the response to the FOI, are not comparable. The question and response in the Assembly were specifically related to teachers only. The FOI references a significantly larger workforce group that, in addition to teachers, also includes Heads and deputy heads, lecturers at Highlands College and teaching assistants.

Consequently, there is no disparity nor discrepancy between the responses.

10. Deputy R.J. Ward of St. Helier Central of the Minister for Children and Education regarding female teaching staff leaving the profession (WQ.184/2023)

Question

With reference to Table 5 of a Freedom of Information request, published 8th March 2023, which shows a pattern of female teaching staff leaving the profession in higher numbers compared to their male counterparts, particularly in the 40 to 59 age group, will the Minister advise –

1. what reasons she gives for this pattern;
2. what research or dialogue has been, or is due to be, undertaken to understand the loss of female teaching staff; and
3. whether those replacing these staff members will reflect the age and demographic lost and, if not, whether she can provide information on the demographics of the replacement staff?

Answer

Table 5 which the Deputy has referred to represents leavers in the 30 – 39 age group in 2019 and provides a breakdown by gender and pay scale of the second highest group of leavers in that year. Due to reporting restrictions in the Freedom of Information response it is not possible, with any certainty, to deduce that female teaching staff are leaving in greater numbers than male teaching staff within this specific age group however this is accurate across all age groups for 2019 where female leavers account for 75% of all leavers. It is also important to note that table 5 includes leavers from both teaching assistant and teacher roles.

1. The workforce referred to in table 5 of the FOI response is comprised of 73% female and 27% male staff. This is aligned with the gender mix of the teacher and teaching assistant workforce and so is proportionate. With circa 3 times as many female employees compared to male it would be expected to see a higher number of leavers who are female.
2. Senior officers meet regularly with all the Unions representing staff in CYPES and continue to respond to the workforce with positive changes such as flexible working, enhanced parental leave and training and development. Research on flexible working is due to be commissioned shortly and this will help schools develop and implement more flexible approaches to working, recognising the challenge due to the nature of the roles.

The Minister is concerned about the recruitment and retention of all staff and her officers continue to work to enhance recruitment activities and respond to concerns of the workforce that can impact on retention. Considerable effort has been invested into strengthening recruitment capabilities through joint work between the Education directorate and the Delivery Unit within the Cabinet Office. Developing new candidate attraction approaches, focussing on enhanced candidate management, and streamlining recruitment processes are all having positive impacts. Investment enabled through Government Plan funding is being deployed to grow the workforce. Schools and CYPES continue to focus on provide new learning and development opportunities for staff to aid retention. These include funding of development to support leadership, oracy, multi-lingual learners, SENDCos, graduate teacher training and early career teachers amongst others.

3. It is uncommon in any industry for new recruits to mirror the demographic of leavers. For example, retirement is a common reason for leaving and those that retire are normally in the upper age brackets, it would not be expected to replace retirees with new recruits of similar demographic.

Staff are employed on the basis of competitive recruitment where we seek to recruit the best person for each role based on their skills and experience. Neither age nor gender form any basis of decision making when recruiting.

11. Deputy R.J. Ward of St. Helier Central of the Minister for Infrastructure regarding Jersey Reds rugby club facility (WQ.185/2023)

Question

Will the Minister describe what plans, if any, are in place to provide a larger facility should Jersey Reds rugby club gain promotion to the Rugby League premiership, given the need for significantly larger capacity for games to take place in Jersey?

Answer

The ground in St. Peter used by the Jersey Reds is privately owned by Jersey Rugby Football Club and leased by the Reds for training and rugby union matches. There are no plans for the Government to provide a larger facility for Jersey Reds.

A national stadium was considered by the previous Government but to be economically viable it would require Reds and Bulls to share the ground. However, the Bulls wanted to remain at Springfield, which has recently received £1.2m in Government investment.

Jersey Reds won the Championship (the league in which they currently compete) on Saturday 29th April but we are advised that there is currently no opportunity for promotion to the Gallagher Premiership because this league has suspended promotion and relegation as part of its Covid recovery strategy.

The Premiership minimum standards criteria would require Jersey Reds to have a 10,001-seater stadium in order to qualify for promotion.

Jersey Reds' biggest crowd this season was approximately 3,000 for the match against Ealing Trailfinders. The average size of the home crowd is 1,000 to 1,500 and the current capacity of the stadium is 4,000.

12. Deputy A. Howell of St. John , St. Lawrence and Trinity of the Minister for Infrastructure regarding the closure of La Motte Street (WQ.186/2023)

Question

Further to the closure of La Motte Street to vehicular traffic whilst public realm works are undertaken, will the Minister advise –

1. what consideration, if any, was given to the access to Customer and Local Services (CLS) at Philip Le Feuvre House for vulnerable Islanders, such as the elderly or those with disabilities and/or mobility issues, during this period;
2. whether any exceptions and/or arrangements have been put in place for those Islanders who would ordinarily either be dropped outside the CLS offices or arrive by bus;
3. what confidence he has that the timing of the closure will not have a detrimental effect on the completion of paper tax forms, coinciding as it does with the deadline for submission of these forms and the potential need by some Islanders for assistance with their completion; and
4. whether there is any possibility that the closure could be deferred until next year when CLS is relocated at the new Cyril Le Marquand House?

Answer

The Infrastructure Department is sensitive to the effects of disruption when work is carried out on the highway network and has, to the greatest extent possible, put measures in place to alleviate any access difficulties while the La Motte Street work takes place. Such changes cause inconvenience by their nature, so as much as possible has been put in place to ensure for vulnerable Islanders, such as the elderly or those with disabilities and/or mobility issues can continue to get to Customer and Local Services (CLS) at Philip Le Feuvre House. We apologise for any inconvenience caused and will closely monitor the project and deal with any issues that islanders report.

Once in place, the street improvements and crossings being installed will make access safer and easier for pedestrians using La Motte Street in future, particularly those with a disability or mobility issues, as well as providing an onward link from the Hill Street contraflow cycle route.

In the past, ad-hoc parking and drop off in La Motte Street has caused problems for buses, obstructs footpaths and creates risks to pedestrians trying to cross the road between vehicles stopped in undesignated areas. The current street paving consists of concrete slabs which are not up to modern standards and problematic to maintain.

1. For the seven weeks of phase 1 of the works the following mitigations will be in place to help people access:

• Public access by foot will always remain available.
• Disabled parking facilities on Hilary Street will be increased from 2 spaces to 4 spaces for the duration. This is situated approximately 30 metres from the CLS front door and drop off letter box.
• Snow Hill and Minden Place short stay parking are both approximately 4-5 minutes' walk from CLS (300m and 400m). Green Street is slightly further being 6 minutes' walk (500m).
• Vehicular access remains available to within 30 metres of CLS, via La Motte Street West and Hillary Street diversion.

• Temporary traffic management effectively means La Motte Street stops being a main feeder link to the ring road and becomes a local access route, meaning that traffic levels are likely to reduce as drivers become familiar with the diversion.
• As normal, updates will be provided to the public through radio ads, social media, the Government website, media bulletins and letter drops.
• CLS and I&E will monitor impacts and issue additional communications as required to manage issues such as the tax return deadline.

2. There is no provision for unstructured parking and drop off now. The Department will monitor the traffic throughout the period of the works and adapt traffic management measures as required, being sensitive to circumstances. The number of disabled parking spaces available on Hilary Street has also been doubled.

For bus users travelling into town there are no changes. Bus users travelling out of town on the 4, 13, 21 and 23 will need to use the preceding or following stop. Advance notice has been provided at the La Motte Street stop. There are no changes for the Island's other 21 services.

3. I am confident that the submission of paper tax forms can continue. Public access by foot will always remain available, disruption to Island bus routes is minor, disabled parking remains available and in the immediate vicinity has been increased. As drivers become familiar with the diversion, traffic flows on La Motte Street are anticipated to reduce, potentially improving access in some instances. Traffic management measures will be coordinated with CLS to ensure disruption to clients is minimised, including during the deadline for tax submissions. Islanders who have concerns about their tax forms should contact the CLS department.
4. La Motte Street will be the first part of town to see improvements as part of the Government's Public Realm Movement Strategy to make town a better place for walking, cycling, and spending time in. Delaying the project until CLS relocated would mean that St Helier's public realm programme could not be started until 2024, and the summer and Christmas restrictions La Motte would likely be postponed until spring 2025.

In respect of La Motte Street, the Department is confident that access requirements can be managed. The works have been broken down into a series of phases that will run from now to later in the year, to reduce the impact of the works and ensure access to CLS, businesses and properties are maintained. These arrangements are set out the gov.je website in the road closures and delays section.

13. Deputy S.Y. Mézec of St. Helier South of the Chief Minister regarding conflicts of interest in Council of Ministers meetings (WQ.187/2023)

Question

Further to the response to Written Question 54/2023, will the Chief Minister –

1. detail each occasion when a Minister has declared a conflict of interest in Council of Ministers meetings, including what the conflict was and what agenda item it applied to; and
2. explain whether any declarations of conflicts of interests were made by any members who took part in the review of the 2(1)(e) scheme?

Answer

The Council of Minister's agenda include a standing item at the start of the meeting to declare any interests concerning the matters under discussion. These declarations are recorded in the B minutes. I have asked these to be transferred to the A minutes and re-published to provide a transparent record. I will also provide this to Members. This will detail the occasions, nature and the subject matter of each declaration. In the meantime, I can confirm that no declarations of interest were made in relation to the 2(1)(e) review.

14. Deputy S.Y. Mézec of St. Helier South of the Minister for Housing and Communities regarding instructions on the inclusion of rent control in the rental white paper (WQ.188/2023)

Question

Given the Minister's stance on rent control presented in his election campaign, will the Minister provide details on any instructions or guidance on the inclusion of rent control that he provided to the officers who developed the rental white paper?

Answer

I work on policy with my officers in an open and iterative way. I have not instructed officers on the inclusion of rent control matters in the Improving Residential Tenancies in Jersey white paper. Officers have provided their professional advice on the matter, and I have listened to that advice and provided a political steer on what has ultimately been included in the white paper.

15. Deputy S.Y. Mézec of St. Helier South of the Minister for Treasury and Resources regarding the Upper Earnings Cap (WQ.189/2023)

Question

Will the Minister provide an updated figure for the estimated extra revenue that would be raised by removing the Upper Earnings Cap from both Social Security Contributions and Long-Term Care Contributions?

Answer

Officers have modelled the revenue impact using the latest available tax data. This is for the 2021 Year of Assessment.

A key assumption made is that there would be no change in employer or taxpayer behaviour as a result of the rate rise.

If the UEL for Social Security Contributions was abolished, it is estimated additional social security revenue would total £9.0 million.

If the cap on the Long-Term Care Contributions was abolished, it is estimated additional long-term care revenue would total £8.5 million.

Revenue raised in this way would be paid into the relevant fund and would not be available for general government spending. Unless equivalent changes were made to the grant to the social security fund or the long-term care fund there would be no benefit to the balance of general revenues and expenditure.

16. Deputy L.V. Feltham of St. Helier Central of the Minister for Housing and Communities regarding the Lodging Houses (Registration) (Jersey) Law 1962 and the Lodging Houses (General Provisions) (Jersey) Order 1962 (WQ.190/2023)

Question

Will the Minister provide details of the processes in place to ensure that all accommodations that should be registered as a lodging house under the Lodging houses (Registration) (Jersey) law 1962 are correctly registered, and that they are also regulated in accordance with the Lodging Houses (General Provisions) (Jersey) Order 1962; and will the Minister further advise whether he is confident that all relevant accommodation is registered, and if not, why not?

Answer

All properties registered under the Lodging Houses (Registration) (Jersey) Law 1962 are subject to an annual re-registration process. Every application for renewal of registration must be made in the month of December.

The collation, registration and determination of what accommodation should be on the registration is a matter for the Population Office.

The register data is shared with the Housing and Nuisance team within Regulation who undertake property inspections to regulate on minimum standards.

Compliance action will be taken if a residential property is found to be operating as a lodging house outside of the legislation.

17. Deputy T.A. Coles of St. Helier South of the Minister for Home Affairs regarding States of Jersey Police Licensing Unit (WQ.191/2023)

Question

In relation to the States of Jersey Police Licensing Unit, will the Minister provide the following for 2022 and from January to date for 2023 –

1. the number of complaints received about licenced premises;
2. the number of enforcements brought against licenced premises; and
3. the number of arrests made on licenced premises?

Answer

Due to other operational and staffing pressures, the dedicated States of Jersey Police licensing unit was disbanded in 2019 and the responsibility was then carried by all operational shifts and the Community Team. SOJP have recently reintroduced a dedicated resource within the Community Team.

We are unable to specifically provide the information requested in a) and c). The number of complaints' against licenced premises is not a figure that is recordable on the police system, only crimes recorded against licensed premises. This data would require a manual trawl of all incident logs. A manual trawl of all arrest logs would also be required to determine if it were affected on a licenced premise.

We do however have the following data, which is the count of all recorded crime related to conduct on licenced premises since January 2022.

b) Enforcements brought against licenced premises:

Fail to conform to conditions of a licence - Art 79 Licensing Law 1974  3

18. Deputy T.A. Coles of St. Helier South of the Minister for Home Affairs regarding alcohol related arrests (WQ.192/2023)

Question

Will the Minister provide the number of alcohol related arrests from 2019 to date, broken down by month?

Answer

The number of alcohol related arrests' here is defined by: an arresting officer and/or custody officer identifying a crime for which an individual was arrested for was alcohol related.

19. Deputy T.A. Coles of St. Helier South of the Minister for Health and Social Services regarding incidents against staff due to alcohol consumption (WQ.193/2023)

Question

Will the Minister provide details of incidents against staff that have been the result of alcohol consumption since 2019, broken down by month?

Answer

Health and Community Services does not collect data on incidents to staff which were considered a result of alcohol consumption. Within the Jersey General Hospital and the Emergency Department specifically, visitors are not routinely tested for their alcohol levels unless there is a significant clinical indication to do so. Furthermore, staff are trained not to assume that a patient's behaviour is because of alcohol consumption as there are many underlying medical conditions that could cause confusion and agitation. We therefore would not encourage staff to assume and report an incident being due to alcohol intoxication.

However, a search of patient safety incidents using the keyword alcohol' in the incident description did return four incidents that related to alcohol since 2019. All four of these incidents were within Adult Mental Health Services (one in each year from 2019-2022 inclusive) and related to incidents where the patient was visibly seen drinking/ holding alcohol or had been breathalysed; no staff came to harm as a result of these.

20. Deputy M.B. Andrews of St. Helier North of the Chair of the States Employment Board regarding the length of service of Government employees (WQ.194/2023)

Question

Will the Chair advise what data, if any, is available regarding the length of service of Government employees and, if no such data is available, is any consideration being given to the collection and reporting of this data to enable the monitoring of staff retention?

Answer

We collect the start date of our employees, for the purposes of monitoring continuous service and benefits. The information is also used in our strategic planning toolkit to identify succession planning opportunities and plan for turnover. All departments are using this data for workforce planning, allowing the Government to move to a more proactive market-management position for anticipated vacancies that should reduce the cost of hiring, stabilise services prone to turnover and support the market in developing training courses on-Island for professional groups.

21. Deputy L.J. Farnham of St. Ouen , St. Mary and St. Peter of the Minister for Treasury and Resources regarding the IT, financial and manpower implications of allowing combined, as well as independent, tax returns (WQ.195/2023)

Question

Will the Minister –

1. advise whether the IT system intended to process independent tax returns is also able to process combined tax returns and, if not, what adjustments, if any, would be required to enable this; and
2. provide details of the financial and manpower implications of allowing combined, as well as independent, returns?

Answer

1. The Revenue Management System (RMS) is a commercial "off-the shelf" system, which is designed to operate primarily with Independent Taxation, which is the tax regime in force in most jurisdictions. With investment, RMS has been customised for use in Jersey to accommodate Married Couples' Taxation (and other Jersey-specific matters).

RMS is currently configured to process tax returns from single individuals (including those who are already within the Independent Taxation regime – married or single), as well as tax returns from married couples and civil partners. Therefore, the IT system would be able process combined tax returns', effectively continuing the current dual system, with relatively little up-front system development work. Further details on costs are provided in the response to part (b).

One major advantage of mandatory Independent Taxation is that it would remove the complexity and frictional costs that comes with having two separate regimes. All tax returns would be processed in the same way, regardless of an individual's marital status. Any move to maintain married taxation, either for all couples or for specific groups, would naturally create complexity and higher ongoing financial and staffing costs, potentially for an indefinite period (the youngest married couples in the tax system are in their early to mid-20s).

2. Although costs would be minimal in the short-term, the real costs of running two systems in parallel would come further down the line:

• Two IT systems would need to be maintained. Every system update (approx. four per year) would require twice the amount of resource in the testing team, and at least double the supplier development costs.
• Revenue Jersey officers would need to be trained on two separate forms of taxation for the foreseeable future.
• All communications issued by Revenue Jersey would need two versions, or each communication would need to be caveated to explain that some rules are different for certain groups of taxpayers. Revenue Jersey has recent experience of how unclear messaging increases call volumes and footfall, diverting officers from core assessing and compliance work.
• Maintaining a Jersey-specific add-on element to the more usually adopted (worldwide) personal taxation rules would significantly limit the options, and increase costs, when the existing tax system needs to be replaced in future years.
• It may also cause unnecessary complexity as we seek to move to more digital Government, with each person having their own digital identity for the purpose of accessing Government services. On the other hand, the move to mandatory Independent Taxation would help ensure that the forthcoming online tax accounts can adhere to data protection rules.

Quantifying these future costs and complexity is difficult. Allowing couples married before 2022 to remain in the Married Couples' Taxation regime indefinitely is likely to increase the costs of Revenue Jersey by at least £500,000 yearly. and deprive the Government of opportunities to make efficiencies through greater simplification of the tax system. Further work on costing could only be done were the Assembly to agree a different approach from that long-proposed by Government.

Recent experience with the transition from the previous year basis (PYB) of payment to the current year basis (CYB) of payment provides a recent example of the complexities of introducing a policy through a system of grandfathering. Ministers are determined to learn from the past.

There are already married couples and civil partners who have been mandatorily included within Independent Taxation since the first stage of the legislation came into force on 1 January 2022. That cohort of newly married couples and new arrivals join those who have volunteered into Independent Taxation. If Independent Taxation is not made mandatory, careful consideration will need to be given to those couples, including whether to offer a return to married taxation and how the compensatory allowance would work (the draft legislation would currently only permit the compensatory allowance to couples in the married couples' tax system before 1 January 2022).

Many of those couples who have volunteered into Independent Taxation would have made that decision based on what they have understood from government communications. Namely, that Independent Taxation would become mandatory, at which point the compensatory allowance would be made available for those who need it.

Crucially, grandfathering of Married Couples' Taxation would defeat the principle of Independent Taxation, which is to remove sex and age discrimination from Jersey's tax system. The propositions to-date were approved overwhelmingly by the States Assembly following extensive public engagement.

Nevertheless, there is a valid issue about the unsettling effect these changes may have on a minority of couples. The same concerns have been raised at the Personal Tax Community Helpdesk events, which have taken place in Parish Hall s and other locations across the Island since September 2022.

If the draft law is approved by the Assembly, it is likely that many pensioners could be removed from the need to file a tax return, meaning additional customer support can be targeted to those who need it most. Revenue Jersey has regular experience in handling inexperienced filers, in the unfortunate circumstance of the death of a spouse, for example.

22. Deputy M.R. Scott of St. Brelade of the Chair of the States Employment Board regarding training materials in relation to ethical conduct (WQ.196/2023)

Question

Will the Chair provide copies of all training materials provided over the last 5 years to public service workers in relation to ethical conduct, as well as any draft of such material intended for future delivery, and copies of the recently developed training material to which paragraph (c) of the response to Written Question 63/2023 referred?

Answer

The following corporate mandatory and statutory training is provided to all government employees which includes training material related to:

Dignity and Respect at Work

This course explores the importance of having a culture where dignity and respect are central to everyday interactions with customers and colleagues. It sets out what kinds of behaviours we encourage and highlights those that should be avoided. There is an introduction to our Dignity and Respect at Work policy, if you feel you or someone else is not treated with respect.

Diversity, Equity and Inclusion

This course provides an overview of what diversity, equity and inclusion means for the Government of Jersey and how it benefits the overall culture. This also links to the Common Strategy Priorities and the People Strategy.

The training material referred to in WQ 63/2023 is in development for the new Connect People platform and will be shared shortly.

However, the new codes of practice, which include the standards in public service (and specifically refers to ethics), form part of "MyWelcome" (the induction programme), which all new employees are required to complete. Any existing or new employees who receive a new contract of employment are provided with the link to the Codes of Practice at offer stage, and are provided with a link to the codes of practice with their contract of employment.

The training materials are available at the following link: LINK TO FOLLOW

23. Deputy S.Y. Mézec of St. Helier South of the Minister for Economic Development, Tourism, Sport and Culture regarding costs of the recently commissioned review of sport in Jersey (WQ.197/2023)

Question

Will the Minister provide a breakdown of the anticipated costs of the recently commissioned review of sport in Jersey to be undertaken by Simon Cooper?

Answer

As outlined in the EDTSC Ministerial Delivery Plan for 2023, I committed to undertake a strategic review of the sports delivery landscape and the key bodies responsible for the delivery of sport in the Island, to ensure we provide a coordinated and enhanced sport offering for Islanders and are able to deliver on our strategic priorities. It has now been 5 years since the establishment of Jersey Sport and moving the delivery of sport to an arms-length arrangement. It is good practice to undertake reviews of public policy making and delivery to ensure that existing arrangements are effective, efficient and delivering good value for public money.

Simon Cooper, Sorensen Consulting Ltd has therefore been commissioned to:

• Review how the Government's sport and physical activity policies are formulated and implemented.
• Review if the existing arms-length partner's structure, organisation, management and delivery remains appropriate, relevant and fit for purpose to meet the Council of Minister's Common Strategic Policy and ministerial priorities of the Minister for Economic Development, Tourism, Sport and Culture.
• Produce a report on the review findings, including recommendations on next steps to improve effectiveness and efficiency.

Extensive document review and analysis, a series of key stakeholder discussions with representatives from across the sports landscape in the Island, as well as a written consultation process, will be undertaken as part of the review. The cost of the commissioned work is £12,000, plus any costs associated with the two planned visits to the Island to conduct face-to-face consultation.

24. Deputy G.P. Southern of St. Helier Central of the Minister for Treasury and Resources regarding the greening' of the States of Jersey investment portfolio (WQ.198/2023)

Question

Will the Minister provide an update on the greening' of the States of Jersey investment portfolio, and will he advise whether he is satisfied with the progress being made in this area?

Answer

As Minister for Treasury and Resources I have a duty as a long-term steward of capital to invest responsibly - the consideration and integration of environmental, social and corporate governance (ESG') issues are paramount to this objective.

I believe I have laid out this objective clearly and in some detail in the Investment Strategy document published most recently in September 2022 r.131-2022.pdf (gov.je).

The strategy seeks to ensure that our investment managers fully integrate ESG considerations into their investment process. This ensures risks that are not reflected in traditional financial analysis can be identified and managed. For example, a company's environmental practices may impact its long- term profitability, and social issues like labour practices and community relations may affect the company's brand and reputation. Proper assessment of these factors is expected to both improve performance over time and ensure our portfolio avoids companies who are failing to align themselves with modern standards and the transition to a cleaner economy.

Financial and environmental concerns are closely interlinked and active engagement with companies to improve corporate governance allows the States of Jersey to align the best financial interests of its portfolio with improved management of ESG factors and through active engagement, positively influence the environmental footprint of the companies in which we invest.

The  independent  Treasury  Advisory  Panel  reviews  several  criteria  by  which  we  monitor  our managers, including stewardship activities such as voting and company engagements, disclosure and reporting levels and the ongoing assessment by  our investment advisor, Aon, to the level of integration of ESG criteria in each manager's underlying strategy. We hold our investment managers to exacting standards and the Panel will continue to hold them accountable for the foreseeable future.

I should highlight that our approach to responsible investment will need to continually evolve, both due to the changing landscape with respect to ESG issues as well as broader industry developments. I am committed to ensuring we continually review best practice demonstrated by other similar institutional investors to ensure our policies and approach remain appropriate and aligned with the States' investment objectives.

25. Deputy M.B. Andrews of St. Helier North of the Minister for Treasury and Resources regarding stamp duty (WQ.199/2023)

Question

Will the Minister advise how much stamp duty has been generated on property transactions over £5,000,000, per annum, since 2018?

Answer

The table below shows the stamp duty generated on property transactions over £5,000,000 in the years  2018  to  2022  inclusive.  The  total  includes  transactions  relating  to  both  residential  and commercial properties.

Note: The higher stamp duty bands increased in January 2019 and again in January 2021.

26. Deputy M.B. Andrews of St. Helier North of the Minister for Infrastructure regarding disabled parking spaces (WQ.200/2023)

Question

Will the Minister advise the total number of disabled parking spaces available Islandwide and what plans, if any, he has in relation to disabled parking spaces during his term of office?

Answer

The Minister for Infrastructure is responsible for public parking that is under the administration of the Government of Jersey. Officers within Infrastructure and Environment's Transport Section administer the following disabled persons parking spaces:

- 86 on street within St Helier (on parish and main roads)

- 70 within public car parks within St Helier

- 53 in public car parks outside St Helier

Disabled badge holders are entitled to use any other public car parking space for free, subject to time limits.

Beyond this, Parish authorities also provide disabled persons parking spaces to serve parochial amenities. There are also disabled persons parking spaces within commercial and residential settings.

For parking that is administered by the Infrastructure Department, officers are currently undertaking a periodic review of the disabled parking provision in St Helier with the intention of ensuring that current provision and amenity levels remain fit for purpose both in terms of location and availability.

27. Deputy M.B. Andrews of St. Helier North of the Chief Minister regarding Our Hospital and Healthcare Facilities project expenditure (WQ.201/2023)

Question

Will the Chief Minister provide details of the amount that the Government has expended on the Our Hospital and Healthcare Facilities projects since the commencement of their term of office?

Answer

Our Hospital Project (July to December 2022):  

The expenditure between July to December 2022, agreed by the previous administration, was £13.5m and includes:

The Head of Expenditure for the Our Hospital Project was closed on 31 Dec 2022, in line with the amendment to the government plan and approval by States Assembly of Amendment 20 to the approved Government Plan p.97-2022 amd.(20).pdf (gov.je): Hospital Funding.

New Healthcare Facilities (NHF) Programme (Jan 2023):  

The Head of Expenditure for NHF commenced from 01 January 2023. As of 31 March 2023, £5.1m has been spent on the NHF programme, which includes the redevelopment of the former Les Quennevais School:

28. Deputy M.R. Scott of St. Brelade of the Chair of the Privileges and Procedures Committee regarding voter identification in elections (WQ.202/2023)

Question

Will the Chair advise to what extent, if any, consideration is being given to the introduction of voter identification in elections, including the practice of enabling States Members standing in the relevant election  to  identify  constituents  who  do  not  possess  a  formal  identification  document  when voting,  and, if voter identification is not being considered, will she undertake to ensure that it is included in all and any discussions taking place regarding electoral reform?

Answer

The Elections (Jersey) Law 2002 does not prescribe how voters need to prove their identity to register, either online, by post or in person. On Election Day, checking the identity of a voter is left to the "satisfaction of the Autorisé".

The CPA BIMR Election Observation Mission (EOM) report found that voters were almost always asked to show a proof of identification such as a passport or driving licence, and in some polling stations posters were displayed highlighting the need for photo identification. Polling officials were instructed to request a (photo) ID in cases where the identity of the voter was not known to a polling official or to other voters who might be voting at the same time. The EOM identified that voters who may not have such documents are at risk of being prevented from voting by an administrative practice, as there is no system in place for these voters to obtain a specific voter ID document that includes a photo. In that regard, the EOM made the following recommendation:

Recommendation 10: As the requirement for voters to use photo ID to prove their identity is not established in law and restricts suffrage, consideration should be given to whether the use of photo ID as evidence of voter eligibility should be maintained or whether other alternative methods of proving identity are suitable.

PPC is currently considering the recommendations made by the EOM in conjunction with the report by the Jersey Electoral Authority. In relation to recommendation 10 specifically, the Committee has not yet considered whether the use of photo ID should be maintained or whether other alternative methods of proving identity are suitable. It is anticipated that the Committee will look at best practice elsewhere which could include whether States Members standing in the relevant election could identify constituents who do not possess a formal identification document when voting.

29. Deputy M.R. Scott of St. Brelade of the Chair of the Privileges and Procedures Committee regarding a referral by PPC to the Commissioner for Standards (WQ.203/2023)

Question

Will the Chair advise how many (i) States Members, and (ii) members of the public, contacted the Privileges and Procedures Committee with respect to the statement made by the Deputy Chief Minister regarding his lack of knowledge of resignations in the public sector, that was subsequently referred to the Commissioner for Standards?

Answer

Whilst no 'count' as such was taken when the matter was considered by PPC, the 5 non Executive members had each been contacted by a number of States Members and constituents in confidence regarding the communications relating to the unexpected resignation of the Chief Executive. The Committee, whilst making no allegations about the matter, felt that it could not simply ignore the concerns and questions raised and that a referral to the Commissioner for Standards was the right thing to do in this situation, given the level of disquiet expressed.

30. Deputy M.B. Andrews of St. Helier North of the Minister for Health and Social Services regarding surgical procedures (WQ.204/2023)

Question

Will the Minister advise how many individuals are awaiting surgical procedures; and of those individuals how many have been awaiting surgical procedures for over six months?

Answer

As of 16/05/23 there are 2418 patients on the Patient Waiting List.

Out of those, 795 have been waiting longer than 180 days. A detailed breakdown against specialty is shown below.

31. Deputy M.B. Andrews of St. Helier North of the Minister for the Environment regarding rejected planning applications in the last five years (WQ.205/2023)

Question

Will the Minister confirm both the number of planning applications that have been rejected in the last five years together with the number of housing units that each would have provided had they not been rejected and the number of planning applications that have been approved together with the number of housing units that they have provided?

Answer

Of the 7,028 major and minor planning applications between 1st January 2018 and 31st December 2022, a total of 762 were refused planning permission. Of the 7,028 planning applications referred to above, 5,841 received planning permission.

It is not possible to extract true and accurate data from the current systems for the number of housing units that would or would not have been provided.

The Place and Spatial Planning Team was able to confirm that during the life of the Bridging Island Plan 25th March 2022 to 15th May 2023, permissions were granted for 349 new dwellings. During the same period, a total of 788 proposed new dwellings were refused planning permission.

A recommendation from the  Review of Planning Services (2023) identified the need for "an integrated set of data to monitor the performance of the planning service". Project RIDA is an investment in new technology to support a stable, effective and efficient platform for improvements to the planning service. This new system will be designed to report on service performance statistics as well as key information about housing units and land use. In response to this recommendation, I have committed to "publish a list of Key Performance Indicators that will be monitored by the end of Q3, although monitoring these KPI's will only become fully possible with the deployment of RIDA in Q1 2024".

32. Deputy M.B. Andrews of St. Helier North of the Minister for Treasury and Resources regarding the connection of homes to mains water by Jersey Water (WQ.206/2023)

Question

In relation to the connection of homes to mains water by Jersey Water, will the Minister, as Shareholder representative, advise –

1. the number of homes that have been connected in the last three years together with the cost; and
2. the proposed number of homes to be connected between 2023 and 2026?

Answer

1. In the three financial years from 2020-2022*, a total of 1,239 new connections were installed on the Island's mains water network. Jersey Water customers meet the costs of individual connections, which vary depending on the work involved.

During the same three-year period, Jersey Water laid a total of 5.6km of new water mains, principally funded by developers wishing to connect new properties. 1.7km of the extensions was funded directly by Jersey Water at a cost of £382k, adding 45 new connections to date.

2. So far in 2023, Jersey Water has invested a further £112k to extend the mains network by 0.3km, leading to 12 new connections. Plans for 2024 are currently being considered.

It is important to note that a single water connection can service multiple households, for example a block of flats in a development.

Jersey Water is committed to reaching more homes. The company reviews and prioritises its capital investment for extending the mains network on an annual basis, taking multiple factors into account including cost, water quality issues and customer demand.

The number of new water mains will vary from year to year depending on competing operational and financial factors, such as addressing the Island's water resources deficit, maintaining water quality, reducing leakage and sustaining the existing water supply infrastructure.

33. Deputy P.M. Bailhache of St. Clement of the Chief Minister regarding improving Jersey's resilience (WQ.207/2023)

Question

Given the uncertain political situation globally, due principally to the Russian invasion of Ukraine, will the Chief Minister state what consideration has been given by the Government to improving Jersey's resilience, and in particular advise –

1. whether the Government has imposed any requirements on food wholesalers to maintain stocks of food in the Island;

2. what is the current level of food supplies stored in Jersey compared with that of January 2022;
3. how many days' supply of fuel are held in the Island, both for general consumption and for the emergency generation of electricity, both currently and compared with January 2022;
4. whether the Government requires the holding of a certain number of days' supply of other essential supplies, for example medical supplies for the security ofpublic health and, if it does, whether any such requirement has been enhanced since January 2022; and
5. whether, given the steps taken by Guernsey and the Isle of Man to invest in ships to improve the resilience of their supply chains, the Government is planning any similar investment to improve Jersey's resilience?

Answer

Given the importance of resilience to Jersey as a small Island community, the Chief Minister has commissioned an internal workstream to consider the linked issues of resilience, the development of new Civil Contingencies legislation, risk management and supply chain.

1. The Government has not imposed any requirements on food wholesalers to maintain stocks of food in the Island. Like other jurisdictions, the Island relies on private sector companies to satisfy normal demand for fuel and food through the existing supply chain, which has been shown to be resilient, having remained functional during Brexit, Covid and latterly the war in Ukraine. However, the supply chain continues to be regularly monitoredby the relevant departments (Economy, Health & Community Services, and Justice & Home Affairs). Under the Emergency Powers and Planning (Jersey) Law 1990, specific Ministers are designated as competent authorities having the responsibility and power to secure certain essentials of life for the community as and when required.
2. Food retailers have confirmed storage for fresh food of 1-3 days, 2-3 days for frozen food, and ambient food ranges from 3-7 days' supply. Food wholesalers have confirmed they hold 1-4 weeks of chilled product, 4-6 weeks of ambient product and 2-4 weeks of frozen product. Subject to sell-by dates, these frozen products can have a shelf life of up to 6 months. These supplies have proven to be adequate and as such have not changed since January 2022.
3. Following the learning from Brexit and Covid, supply chains for fuel have been diversified to allow for even stronger supply chain resilience. La Collette Terminal typically maintain a one month's supply of fuel, this is in addition to the supply from ATF, who operate a different supply model, using ISO containers shipped on conventional ferries. This represents no additional increase in capacity since January 2022, and fuel supply remains resilient and has done throughout the Russian conflict with Ukraine. Following the Russian invasion of Ukraine, it is worthy of note that supply chain risks (and other identified risks) have been carefully monitored throughout the period, and an emergency response structure remains in place in readiness to respond to any associated crisis that emerges or begins to emerge.

Jersey Electricity imports most of its power from Europe but has on island generation which is maintained in a state of readiness in the extremely unlikely event that supplies from Europe are disrupted. Jersey Electricity (JE) does not routinely generate power on Island except to test generation which is performed monthly. In terms of fuel storage, JE currently hold 13 days capacity at La Collette with a maximum possible capacity of 25 days. JE have contracts in place to refuel by sea which means that deliveries can be scheduled and received at short notice. By contrast, in January 2022, fuel stocks equivalent to 9 days of capacity were held. Fuel stock was increased taking account of the anticipated tight generation margins in Europe during winter 2022/23 however, the situation was much less severe that predicted with very minimal local generation occurring. JE has robust winter plans where the status of our readiness is reviewed annually and monitored on a weekly basis. JE also maintains regular contact with Fuel suppliers to ensure that resupply can take place within the endurance window.

4. Health & Community Services (HCS) maintains a 4-6 week on Island stock of fast-moving medical supplies. In addition, a 30-day pandemic stock is maintained for public health purposes. HCS pharmacy maintain a 4-8 week on island stock of medicines and pharmaceutical supplies. The medical supply chain is constantly monitored, and adjustments made as required to assure HCS business continuity, with lessons learned during Brexit and Covid. There has been no requirement to increase these on island stocks as a result of the war in Ukraine.
5. The current Operating Agreement with the Channel Islands' principal ferry operator expires in March 2025. Options for Jersey's long-term sea connectivity remain under evaluation. This evaluation is commercially sensitive. Within that evaluation, Government is prioritising Jersey's supply chain resilience, as well as the high expectations that island businesses and residents have for reliable and resilient sea connectivity.

34. Deputy Sir P.M. Bailhache of St. Clement of the Minister for Health and Social Services regarding the Memorandum of Understanding in relation to the cultivation of cannabis (WQ.208/2023)

Question

Will the Minister explain, given the Government's expressed commitment to openness and transparency, why she is unwilling to release to Members, and to the public at large, a copy of the current Memorandum of Understanding between the Home Office and the Minister for Health and Social Services in relation to the cultivation of cannabis?

Answer

Having received a request for a copy of the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) from Deputy Bailhache , the Minister considered presenting a copy either to the States Assembly or publishing a copy to the Government's website. However, pursuant to the terms of the MoU, this information cannot be disclosed without the consent of both parties – it is not standard procedure for this information to be made public in the UK. Further to Deputy Bailhache 's request, a copy has been provided.

35. Deputy C.D . Curtis of St. Helier Central of the Chair of the States Employment Board regarding the Jersey Appointment Commission's Guidelines for recruitment (WQ.209/2023)

Question

Will the Chair state how many senior civil servants and appointees, if any, have been appointed within the last year without going through the precise process outlined in the Jersey Appointment Commission's Guidelines for the recruitment of Senior States Employees, appointees and members of independent bodies; and, if the process was not followed, will the Chair explain why it was not followed and whether this is considered to be acceptable practice?

Answer

The SEB have confirmed that one position, that of Chief Officer for Health and Community Service, was appointed as a matter of urgency outside of the usual processes set out by Jersey Appointments Commission.

The matter was considered by the SEB who made a conscious decision to appoint. Subsequently both the Chief Executive and Chief People and Transformation Officer set out the reasons to the Chair of the JAC and apologised for the need to appoint outside of the usual process. It was noted that this was a temporary appointment, and the full process will be followed for the permanent recruitment.

The circumstances were exceptional, and on this occasion, the appointment was considered necessary. The SEB expect all appointments to follow the JAC guidance.

36. Deputy T.A. Coles of St. Helier South of the Minister for Infrastructure regarding the Town Link Bus (Route 20) (WQ.210/2023)

Question

In relation to the Town Link Bus (Route 20), will the Minister advise –

1. why the route stopped servicing the South Hill/Bingham Court area;
2. what notice, if any, was given to the public regarding the loss of the bus service to this area; and
3. whether any consideration is being given to reinstating the service to this area?

Answer

1. The Town Link bus service no longer operates to Pier Road, Fort Regent and South Hill because of low passenger numbers.

This area was not originally included in the Town Bus service but LibertyBus decided to add Pier Road on a trial basis to assess demand for a service primarily serving Haut Du Mont flats. Subsequently, the route was modified slightly to call at the Vaccination Centre at Fort Regent, a replacement for the dedicated minibus shuttle service which had been operating for a time.

After the Haut Du Mont major incident in December 2022, road closures meant that buses could no longer turn left downhill as they exited Fort Regent. Instead, they were diverted temporarily past Bingham Court. This was never intended to be a long-term arrangement and is not a viable route, so it has not been included in the LibertyBus Spring-Summer timetable for 2023.

2. The revised route was communicated to the public in the published timetable booklet.
3. LibertyBus keeps timetables under continuous review and there are opportunities in advance of seasonal changes in service levels to consider alterations. Bingham Court is a short distance away from bus stops on Green Street where a very comprehensive timetable on bus service number 1 is provided, several times per hour from early in the morning to late in the evening, seven days a week.

37. Deputy T.A. Coles of St. Helier South of the Minister for Housing and Communities regarding the maximum occupancy per unit of Andium Homes accommodation (WQ.211/2023)

Question

Does Andium maintain a list of maximum occupancy per unit of accommodation they provide and are they aware of any of their properties that are currently over occupied?

Answer

Andium Homes does not maintain a list of the maximum occupancy of its social rented homes. Andium lets its vacant homes to applicants from the Affordable Housing Gateway.

The Gateway presents applicants based on their accommodation needs. Thereafter it is incumbent on the tenant to keep Andium informed of any changes to the number of people in their household. Where the number of people in a household changes, and this would result in either over occupancy (too few bedrooms) or underoccupancy (too many bedrooms), tenants need to apply to the Gateway for a transfer to a new home which meets their current household needs.

The Gateway holds data for tenants who have applied for a transfer due to over occupancy. As of Friday 19 May 2023, there were 72 applicants actively seeking larger accommodation due to over occupancy. Like Andium, the Gateway rely on tenants providing information on any changes to their living situations.

38. Deputy A. Howell of St. John , St. Lawrence and Trinity of the Minister for Health and Social Services regarding qualifications and occupational competence of locum and agency staff (WQ.212/2023)

Question

Given that Health Care Professionals working in Jersey are required to be registered with UK professional registration bodies, will the Minister explain –

1. how the qualifications of personnel are checked, and at what point in the recruitment process;
2. how the occupational competence of all Locum and Agency Staff is assessed when they are first appointed in Jersey;
3. how she ensures that all such recruitment meets her responsibilities in respect of patient safety and quality of care; and
4. whether any temporary staff have been granted permission to be in the Island without the proper qualifications, and if so, why?

Answer

1. For Permanent Staff, once PeopleHub receive the interview feedback form and as soon as an offer is made to the candidate, the Jersey Care Commission (JCC) registration form is sent to the candidate, together with offer of employment and provisional contract. This is conducted for all roles as per JCC guidance notes.

Once this has been completed and returned, PeopleHub will upload the relevant certificate(s) to TalentLink and verify the candidate's status on the health and social care professionals register[1].

Note: a confirmed start date and formal contract cannot be issued, and as such employment cannot start, without the above being satisfactorily completed.

In addition to the above, the following checks are also completed:

• DBS carried out by our third-party provider Procius;
• A minimum of 2 most recent employment references;
• Infection Control clearance; and
• AXA Occupational Health Assessment.

For Locum Doctors, all doctors are met face to face for an ID check and other pre-employment checks in line with NHS Employers Check Standards[2] by the Holt agency team as part of the contract with Holt. Holt verify the following original documents needed for compliance:

• Photographic ID;
• Birth certificate;
• Proof of address (x2);
• Professional Registration and Qualifications certificates;
• Other / higher qualifications, such as MRCP/FRCP/ALS/Masters degrees etc; and
• Eligibility for Home Office Right to work check.

For Agency Nurses and Allied Health Professionals (AHPs), CVs are received and sent to the relevant managers; HCS have re-introduced telephone interviews where managers can discuss with the Agency Nurses/AHPs their knowledge and experience before confirming appointment to the temporary role.

A checklist is used by the HCS Bank Staffing Team which confirms managers have seen the documents required to ensure compliance regarding Agency clearances/proof of qualifications. This checklist includes

• DBS check
• JCC registration
• UK registration
• Professional references

This is checked separately by members of the booking Team (team member and Team leader) to ensure that everything is covered before the Agency Nurse/AHP comes to the Island.

For Agency Nurses, to assist their ability to start work immediately before arriving they are sent out a link for Virtual College and asked to complete EPMA, Trak, and other training. On their first day, they meet with the Team face to face and complete training with the ICT trainers.

2. For Locum Doctors, occupational competence assessment on the job is conducted by the supervising Consultants they are working for (as they might be deemed suitable for a role only to be cancelled at a later date if not to the level expected). Occupational suitability for

a job would be based on the supporting CV and references provided at the point of proposal (and phone interview for consultants).

 For Agency Nurses and AHPs, occupational competence is assessed on the job by the Team Lead for the area they are working in. The Induction Checklist will be completed by the Lead and returned to the relevant team within 48 hours.

 All recruitment checks are in line with best practice operated in other jurisdictions and form a central part of the processes operated by PeopleHub for permanent employees and are in the contracts with the agencies providing the temporary colleagues.

If ever there are concerns expressed about the competency of a locum or agency worker, then it is within our contract to terminate the assignment.

3. There are no Agency Nurses, AHPs or Doctors within HCS without the correct qualifications.

This process has evolved over a period of time and is regularly reviewed, it is believed this is a robust process to that we only employ people with the right qualifications to undertake the roles we require.

39. Deputy R.J. Ward of St. Helier Central of the Minister for Social Security regarding carpets and carpet suppliers (WQ.213/2023)

Question

Will the Minister advise –

1. which suppliers are used to supply and fit carpet for rental tenants receiving Government loans for this purpose.
2. whether tenants can use any company to access the best deal possible or are they limited to the named suppliers; and
3. whether tenants have open choice for colour and type of carpet?

Answer

1. Carpets For You are the supplier for all carpets for Income Support customers accessing a special payment.
2. Only the named supplier, as above, can be used when purchasing a carpet through a special payment.
3. The main carpet supplied is Gallant', which is a synthetic, bleach cleanable carpet and is available in 5 different neutral colours (stone, steel, smoke, cloud, and chocolate). There are also other carpet variants available, but Gallant' is the preferred option by customers.

Carpets For You can also supply vinyl when required if approved by Customer and Local Services and the housing provider. This option has been preferred for people with certain disabilities.

Payments are made directly to the supplier, which makes administration more efficient for all involved.

40. Deputy R.J. Ward of St. Helier Central of the Chair of the States Employment Board regarding States employees' long-term absence (WQ.214/2023)

Question

Will the Chair advise how many States employees are currently receiving half pay as a consequence of long-term absence due to illness?

Answer

There were 17 States Employees receiving half pay during April 2023 as a consequence of long-term absence due to illness.

41. Deputy R.J. Ward of St. Helier Central of the Minister for Children and Education regarding research into flexible working (WQ.215/2023)

Question

Further to her response to Written Question 184/2023, in which the Minister stated that research on flexible working was due to be commissioned shortly, will she advise –

1. the commencement and completion date of this research;
2. how it will be undertaken and when its outcomes will be implemented; and
3. how many staff have been refused requests for flexible working options, such as part time or job shares, over the last 3 years?

Answer

The Government of Jersey intends to launch a revised flexible-working policy in June 2023. The department will be required to comply with the revised policy. To develop and support the most appropriate implementation of the revised policy in schools it is intended to commission support from an external partner.

1. The work with a partner is due to commence in the summer term 2023 and is expected to be completed by the end of the autumn term 2023.
2. A partner with experience in assisting organisations to enable increased flexible working in the education sector will be used. We are at the later stages of confirming the brief, so the following is indicative rather than contractual. The overarching objective is to establish a proactive, whole-school approach to flexible working. This will include establishing what flexibility means and how it could operate within educational settings, the requirement for integrated workforce planning to enable flexible working and how this can be offered to different elements of the school workforce at different career stages.

The intention is to have a mix of desktop review and workshops with primary and secondary head teachers (or representatives) to ensure relevance with our local context. Final outputs will include headteacher guidance on the approach to flexible working in schools and it will be the responsibility of the Education directorate to communicate and implement this in 2023.

I have made head teachers aware of these plans and welcome further input from Deputy Ward as this process unfolds.

3. There is an established process for considering flexible working requests today and the department actively receives these and engages in this process. No central statistics are held currently; the revised policy and toolkits for managers provides an electronic form so we may be able to provide this data at some point in the future.  

42. Deputy G.P. Southern of St. Helier Central of the Minister for Social Security regarding zero-hour contracts in Jersey (WQ.216/2023)

Question

Further to the report from the Employment Forum entitled The Operation And Regulation Of Zero Hour Contracts In Jersey, Together With A Review Of Specific Employment Protections', will the Minister –

1. explain what actions, if any, are under consideration to provide statutory protection for continued breaches of the Employment (Jersey) Law 2003 by employers who fail to provide a statement of the terms and conditions of employment to employees, particularly those on zero-hour contracts who are not being provided with accurate statements of terms and conditions that reflect the working relationship between the parties;
2. commit to amending the law to enable employees to have the right to demand, rather than request, that any statement of terms and conditions accurately reflects "regular hours worked"; and
3. advise whether she supports the right to compensation for shift cancellation or curtailment, and if not, why not?

Answer

I am grateful to the Employment Forum for their careful consideration of issues surrounding the use and operation of zero-hour contracts in Jersey and for their comprehensive report. I am currently considering the Forum's recommendations and will publish a full response soon.

43. Deputy G.P. Southern of St. Helier Central of the Minister for Social Security regarding a 48-hour per week working limit for zero-hour contracts (WQ.217/2023)

Question

The recent Employment Forum report The Operation And Regulation Of Zero Hour Contracts In Jersey, Together With A Review Of Specific Employment Protections' refers to guidance on a 48- hour per week working limit to protect the wellbeing and health of employees; what consideration has the Minister given to the potential impact of the post-Brexit removal of EU protections in the UK on such local good practice, and what further protections, if any, is she considering to ensure the maintenance of best practise?

Answer

The operation of legislation in the United Kingdom to provide for limits on working time is a matter for the UK Government. The 48 hour per week working limit has never been adopted into Jersey's law. As the Minister responsible in Jersey for employment protection legislation, I am committed to ensuring that good employment practices – including relating to the health and well-being of employees – are shared as widely as possible. As part of my Ministerial work programme for 2023 I am actively considering the recommendations of the Employment Forum in their recent report on the operation of zero-hour contracts.

The Forum's report also contains detailed recommendations relating to the need to ensure the widest possible promotion of the existing rights covered by employment legislation in Jersey and as part of my consideration of the report, I will decide what further actions may be needed to achieve that.

44. Deputy L.V. Feltham of St. Helier Central of the Minister for Housing and Communities regarding the public consultation Improving Residential Tenancies in Jersey – Residential Tenancy Law Reform proposals' (WQ.218/2023)

Question

Concerning the public consultation: Improving Residential Tenancies in Jersey - Residential Tenancy Law Reform proposals, will the Minister –

1. outline the Terms of Reference and provide details of the project scope, methodology, and anticipated outputs, including what qualitative and quantitative data that will be collected and how this will be analysed;
2. identify which representative groups, organisations, and individuals were consulted to inform the planning of the consultation;
3. outline the target audiences/stakeholder groups that the consultation aims to engage; and
4. outline how the consultation has been planned to ensure that it is inclusive and accessible to all the relevant stakeholder groups?

Answer

1. It is not standard practice for the Government of Jersey to set Terms of Reference or produce methodologies and scope for a public consultation of this nature. The policy context for the proposed changes to the Residential Tenancy (Jersey) Law 2011 (RTL) is well established, including through the work of the Housing Policy Development Board, Creating Better Homes Action Plan, and the Minister for Housing and Communities' Delivery Plan, which sets the agenda for improvements to residential tenancy legislation in Jersey.

The Minister for Housing and Communities has published proposals for residential tenancy reform (Improving Residential Tenancies in Jersey), which highlight the Minister's intended direction of travel. A period of public consultation on the proposals is consistent with the Minister's commitment to open and transparent engagement, where everyone in the community has an opportunity to contribute their views.

The consultation is not intended to be treated on a statistical basis. Rather it will seek to capture opinions from Islanders so that the qualitative aspects of people's unique experience and perspectives on residential tenancy matters can be understood. The feedback will be reviewed and categorised according to general theme and specific issues raised by respondents to the consultation. It will help shape policy and legislation to meet the needs of tenants and landlords in Jersey, whilst helping to ensure that the resulting draft law is supported and implemented without delay.

2. This question presupposes that The Minister should have embarked on a consultation about having a consultation. The Minister must also be mindful that he has a duty to deliver substantive and appropriate residential tenancy reforms in a timely manner for the people of Jersey.
3. The audience for the public consultation in broad terms can be described as any Islander who has a stake in residential tenancy matters, irrespective of what community they are from. The Minister's proposals and the public consultation will have particular relevance to tenants and landlords in the residential rental sector. The Minister and Government officers have considered who needs to be engaged in the public consultation and how to engage them. Government officers are working to a bespoke engagement action plan (that will also record the output of engagement) as well as a bespoke communications plan. Some of the important actions that have taken place or are in train are as follows:

• Engagement of States Members (the political representatives of Islanders). There has been a States Members briefing (24 April); a briefing to of the Environment, Housing, and Infrastructure Scrutiny Panel (25 April); and a 4 hour In-Committee debate in the States Assembly (2-3 May), which covered key areas of the Minister's proposals and offered States Members the opportunity to express their views.
• The Minister is taking part in a series of in-person meetings on his proposals with tenants- facing specialist organisations, which include the Older Persons' Living Forum, representatives from mental health charities, groups representing adults with learning needs, and the Citizens Advice Bureau.
• Officers have hosted a series of individual meetings (w/c 15 May) with social housing providers, receiving feedback on the Minister's proposals for social housing provision. During these discussions the social providers have agreed to help publicise the details of the consultation with their tenants.
• Tenants' stakeholders (e.g., charitable organisations, minority community representatives, the Homelessness Cluster, Children's Commissioner etc.) have been contacted with the details of the public consultation and have been encouraged to publicise it.
• The Minister and Government officers have met with representatives of the Jersey Landlords Association (JLA), to receive their feedback and to discuss the Minister's proposals.
• Three major in-person events are planned for June. They will take place in St Helier Town Hall and will be attended by The Minister, supported by Government officers. The Minister will introduce his proposals and host a question-and-answer session. The events will take place on the following dates:

1. Monday 5th June 2023, 6 pm - 8 pm (landlord focused event)
2. Wednesday 7th June 2023, 6 pm - 8 pm (tenants focused event)
3. Tuesday 13th June, 6 pm - 8 pm (all Islanders interested in residential tenancy matters)

• Government Officers will also be visible in St Helier town centre (Charing Cross) on 30th and 31st May and 1st June between 12-2 pm. They will be on hand to publicise the consultation and facilitate Islanders offering their views on residential tenancy matters.

The period of public consultation has been extended by two weeks and will now end on Friday 23 June 2023.

4. The launch of the Minister's paper was publicised in a press release on 14 April, which contained links to the paper and to the public consultation page, which are freely available to any Islander with access to an electronic device that is connected to the Internet.

The consultation page enables Islanders to offer their feedback to the Minister's plans in three main ways:

• by survey: online survey
• by email: housingmatters@gov.je

• by post: Residential Tenancy Law consultation, Strategic Housing and Regeneration Team, 19-12 Broad Street, St Helier, JE2 3RR

The Minister has acted on feedback that the residential tenancy matters dealt with in his paper are complicated and therefore not readily accessible to a wide cross section of Islanders. To address this, four simple open-ended questions have been devised to make participation in the consultation easier. The questions deal with those residential tenancy matters in paper considered to be of most relevance to tenants and landlords. The questions are as follows:

• What is your opinion about limiting the amount and frequency by which rents can be increased by a landlord?
• Do you think it's better for tenancies to have a fixed end-date, or no specified end-date, and why?
• Do you think a landlord should be able to give notice to end a tenancy without giving a reason?
• Is there anything else about renting properties in Jersey that you think should be addressed as a priority?

The four questions, and simplified versions of the online feedback survey, have been translated into Portuguese, Polish and Romanian and made available to organisations working with the minority communities to ensure they can contribute their views.

The questions have been printed on postcards that will be distributed within the community (with a freepost address for responses), including translations from English into Portuguese, Polish and Romanian. This will assist those members of the community who do not have access to the Internet.

Additionally, if anyone wishes to access a printed copy of the survey, in English or any of the three aforementioned languages spoken by the minority communities, they will be able to do so by approaching the information points at Charing Cross (see answer to question c) as well as during the in-person events in St Helier Town Hall .

The Housing Advice Service, based at CLS in La Motte Street, is also available. Islanders can pop in during working hours to speak to a housing adviser.

All opportunities for in-person engagement will be covered in social media and the local press. It is anticipated that the use of social media will reach wider population of Jersey residents and give them the opportunity to contribute their views even if they cannot attend the in-person events.

45. Deputy L.V. Feltham of St. Helier Central of the Assistant Chief Minister regarding the inclusivity and accessibility of Government communications (WQ.219/2023)

Question

Will the Assistant Chief Minister with responsibility for Government communications outline –

1. what work has been undertaken to ensure that Government communications and consultations are inclusive and accessible to all relevant stakeholder groups;
2. what advice she or her officers provided to the Minister for Housing and Communities or his officers about the public consultation Improving Residential Tenancies in Jersey - Residential Tenancy Law Reform proposals' and related communications; and
3. the Government policy concerning provision of translations and other accessible formats?

Answer

1. The Communications Directorate has liaised with the Government's accessibility champion to better understand requirements for audiences with differing accessibility needs. This includes a presentation on accessibility requirements to the Communications Directorate. All communication strategies include consideration of accessibility. For example, this includes the use of subtitles on all videos, better use of visual data (infographics) rather than text in reports, less reliance on PDFs and a focus on easily scrollable information on gov.je, and communications being produced in more languages (where appropriate).

The Government's Engagement and Information Review is specifically addressing inclusivity and accessibility of Government communications and consultations, particularly where the Government website is concerned.

2. Officers in the Communications team supported the Minister for Housing and Communities, and his officers, by developing and implementing a communications handling plan for this consultation. A news release, widely picked up bythe local media, was produced to coincide with the launch. Officers in the communications team and officers in the Minister's team have been working closely together on the second phase of the consultation, which is focusing on more direct engagement, in particular with communities which do not have English as their first language. Communications colleagues have also guided the Housing team on how best to promote upcoming tenant-focused and landlord-focused meetings. This includes posters, translated into a number of languages, social media "events" and a Ministerial video to clearly explain the key points from the proposals, and how Islanders can have their say. The teams have also worked closely to develop feedback postcards, again in multiple languages, to encourage those who do not have the time or the desire to read the full consultation document to provide succinct feedback on the key points of the consultation paper.
3. All communication strategies include consideration of language needs.

46. Deputy L.V. Feltham of St. Helier Central of the Minister for Housing and Communities regarding improving Government communications for the Island's communities (WQ.220/2023)

Question

Will the Minister provide details of any discussions he has had with the Assistant Chief Minister with responsibility for Communications about how Government communications can be improved for the Island's communities?

Answer

Officers in the Communications' Directorate supported the Minister for Housing and Communities, and his officers, by developing and implementing a communications handling plan for this consultation. A news release, widely picked up by the local media, was produced to coincide with the launch. Officers in the communications team and officers in the Minister's team have been working closely together on the second phase of the consultation, which is focusing on more direct engagement, in particular with communities which do not have English as their first language. Communications colleagues have also guided the Housing team on how best to promote upcoming tenant-focused and landlord-focused meetings. This includes posters, translated into a number of languages, social media events' and a Ministerial video to explain the key points from the proposals, and how Islanders can have their say. The teams have also worked closely to develop feedback postcards, again in multiple languages, to encourage those who do not have the time or the desire to read the full consultation document to provide succinct feedback on the key points of the consultation paper.

47. Deputy R.S. Kovacs of St. Saviour of the Minister for Treasury and Resources regarding Income Tax forecasts (WQ.221/2023)

Question

On page 13 of P.80/2022 it is stated: "Based on the latest assumptions of the Fiscal Policy Panel (FPP) and work of the Income Forecasting Group (IFG), income is forecast to exceed the forecasts in the current Government Plan 2022-25 by more than the costs of these measures.", will the Minister outline –

1. what the latest forecasts are from the IFG or any other reliable sources, regarding income tax measures that were proposed in the 2022-2025 Government Plan; and
2. by how much income from tax will exceed the earlier estimates, as per these forecasts, broken down by year across the period 2022-2025?

Answer

1. The Government Plan 2022-2025, was based on the addendum to the IFG forecast for Spring 2021 produced by the IFG and presented to the States on 21st September 2021 r.151-2021. The IFG produced two further forecasts in Spring and Summer 2022, presented to the States on 4th October 2022 r.134-2022. The Summer 2022 IFG forecast was used as the basis for Government Plan 2023-2026.

I assume that the Deputy is referring specifically to updated forecast costs of the specific income tax measures that were agreed in the Government Plan 2022-202, as detailed in table 30 on page 151 (duplicated below - excluding Climate Emergency Fund budget measures). These estimates remain unchanged.

2. The variance between the Summer 2022 IFG forecast and addendum to the Spring 2021 forecast is detailed below. The increase in income forecast was included and factored into the financial envelope for Government Plan 2023-2026. An updated Spring 2023 IFG forecast has been published on 19th May as r.89/2023. The Spring 2023 IFG forecast is the latest income forecast produced,  based  on  FPP  economic  assumptions  published  in  March  2023. This  forecast incorporates tax measures included in Government Plan 2022-2025 and Government Plan 2023- 2026. The tables below detail the total States income forecast published for Spring 2021 (addendum), Summer 2022 and Spring 2023 over the time period 2022-2025.

The updated forecasts demonstrate the strong overall economic recovery from Covid.

48. Deputy R.S. Kovacs of St. Saviour of the Minister for Treasury and Resources regarding the increase in mortgage rates (WQ.222/2023)

Question

Further to assurances provided in late 2022 that he would meet with the officers to work on a plan to help homeowners pressured by the increase in mortgage rates, will the Minister explain –

1. what actions have been taken since then for affected homeowners and what support is currently available for those impacted by this situation; and
2. given the further recent rise in the Bank of England rate, what actions does the Minister intend to take to support homeowners at risk of losing their homes, if they are unable to keep up with the increased mortgage payments?

Answer

Earlier this month, the Bank of England increased Base Rate to 4.5%. Base Rate rises typically feed through to the mortgage rates charged to mortgage holders paying non-fixed rates of interest (eg those paying standard variable rate or on tracker rates). As I said in evidence to the Corporate Services Scrutiny Panel meeting (link) the majority of Jersey mortgage-holders hold long-term (5 year) fixed rate mortgages and are unaffected by changes in the Base Rate. Officials continue to discuss with mortgage lenders and have been reassured to hear that mortgage lenders will work with any homeowners affected by Base Rate changes and that there are no known homeowners at risk of losing their home. Officials continue to actively monitor this, and our current understanding is that there are very few homeowners' mortgages in arrears.

As I have subsequently confirmed during my Government Plan 2023-2026 review hearing with the Corporate Services Scrutiny Panel (on the 11th of November 2022) and my letter to the panel (dated the 30th of November 2022), it is not right to provide relief which would by its nature only be targeted towards homeowners.

The Government has supported Islanders with the higher costs of living with a package of measures announced in the mini-Budget. This included measures that benefited Islanders in 2022 (a doubling of the community costs bonus, increases in cold weather payments and monthly cash payments to low income households (COLTS), temporary reduction in social security contributions) and also in 2023 (additional increase in income support components from January 2023, significant increase in tax thresholds). Government will continue to monitor and will take further action as necessary.

49. Deputy R.S. Kovacs of St. Saviour of the Minister for Economic Development, Tourism, Sport and Culture regarding the Tourism Development Fund (WQ.223/2023)

Question

Regarding the Tourism Development Fund, will the Minister confirm –

1. whether this fund is still active, and if it is, what the current balance is, and what plans are in place for the next three years to utilise the funds; and
2. how much has been paid in and out of the fund each year since its establishment and to whom?

Answer

1. The Fund is inactive with a remaining balance of £17,233.06.
2. Grants paid into the fund are listed in Table i below whilst payments from the fund are broken down by recipient in Table ii.

Table i

Table ii is available at the following link: WQ.223/2023

50. Deputy G.P. Southern of St. Helier Central of the Minister for Home Affairs regarding updating the Matrimonial Causes (Jersey) Law 1949 (WQ.224/2023)

Question

Will the Minister advise of any ongoing or intended work in relation to updating the Matrimonial Causes (Jersey) Law 1949; and if such workstream exists, what proposed changes are included within it?

Answer

As set out in my Ministerial Plan for 2023, progressing reforms to Jersey's divorce processes, as set out in the Matrimonial Causes (Jersey) Law 1949, is one of my key priorities. Work is progressing to bring the required legislative and other amendments forward, post 2023, with changes proposed in the following areas: