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2.2 Deputy M. Tadier of St. Brelade of the Minister for Economic Development regarding the administration of Woolworths Jersey:
Can the Minister confirm if the administration of Woolworths in Jersey has yet been completed and whether there is likely to be any costs to the Jersey taxpayer arising from this; if the entire residue of local assets have or will be returned to the U.K. (United Kingdom) for distribution to creditors; and whether he is satisfied that Jersey creditors are not receiving unfair advantage over those in the U.K.?
Senator A.J.H. Maclean (The Minister for Economic Development):
The Deputy 's question is not directly applicable to Economic Development and, as such, officers from my department have been in contact with the Viscount's office who have advised as follows: "Matters arising out of the failure of Woolworths plc, in as much as they relate to the business and affairs in Jersey, are being addressed by the Viscount pursuant to an order of the Royal Court of 2nd March 2009. It is understood that the attendant processes are still in train and, ultimately, subject to supervisory jurisdiction and further orders of the Royal Court." I would therefore recommend that the Deputy address his question to the Viscount who will also be in a better position to clarify the question of costs once quantified and, if necessary, judicially directed upon.
- Deputy R.G. Le Hérissier:
I have had a very useful chat with the Viscount as proposed. I wonder if the Minister could clarify if Jersey assets go to offset claims from Jersey creditors as do U.K. claims paid for by U.K. sources? In other words, are the 2 legal jurisdictions operating independently or is there a total overlap or integration?
Senator A.J.H. Maclean:
It is a somewhat complex issue and I think if the Deputy has spoken to the Viscount, I am sure the Viscount would have been able to clarify that point appropriately for him.
- Deputy R.G. Le Hérissier:
I wonder, for the public record, if the Minister would kindly say what his understanding of the situation is. [Approbation]
Senator A.J.H. Maclean:
I would repeat again that I feel the Viscount is the appropriate person but perhaps the Deputy might like to get a view from the Attorney General, if he wishes to add something further to this. [Laughter]
The Bailiff :
Not during question time.
- Deputy M. Tadier :
If I may respond, I thank the Minister for his partial answer and the liaising which has been taking place with the Viscount. Perhaps if I could ask a more appropriate question that could be answered by the Minister. Effectively, was Woolworths a Jersey company or was it a U.K. company? What is the status of it and where does it have its headquarters?
Senator A.J.H. Maclean:
Woolworths plc was a U.K. incorporated company.