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21.11.02
15 Deputy R.J. Ward of the Chief Minister regarding high-value residents
(OQ.218/2021)
Will the Minister state the total number of individuals currently residing in Jersey that are classified as 2(1)(e) high-value residents, and advise whether or not any serving States Members hold this status?
Senator L.J. Farnham ( Deputy Chief Minister - rapporteur):
The Chief Minister has asked me to respond in my capacity as chair of the Housing and Work Advisory Group. Revenue Jersey received 220 tax returns for the year 2020 of assessment from individuals classed as high-value residents; so 220. I do not think it is appropriate to disclose the tax status of any individual, whether they be a Member of the States Assembly or an Islander, in this current forum in response to this question.
- Deputy R.J. Ward :
Does the Minister believe, given the role we have as States Members, that should be something which should be declared in the declaration of interest if your residency is via being a high-value resident?
Senator L.J. Farnham :
I would have to think about whether as Members we should have to declare our tax status. I am afraid I cannot decide on the hoof possibly but it would need further thought, perhaps a debate.
- Deputy S.M. Ahier :
Does the Minister intend to carry out a review of the 2(1)(e) scheme in 2022 since there has not been one since December 2016?
Senator L.J. Farnham :
We are currently reviewing the requirements for entry into the Island under this status. The aim is to limit the numbers somewhat. The average number of permissions granted over the last 5 years has been 18 per annum and to do that we have been raising the entry criteria, so we are reviewing that process currently. There are no firm plans to have another full review prior to the end of this Government. However, I would say that in light of the challenges we are facing, especially in relation to housing, I think, after having further discussions with members of the Housing and Work Advisory Group, we might change our mind. I can say, given the current situation, the urgent situation around housing, I think it is likely we could look at that more closely during the course of this Government.
The Deputy Bailiff :
I regret to say that the time for asking oral questions has now come to an end. Deputy G.P. Southern :
I think I have a point of order. Could the chair consult with Members as to, if there is a 2(1)(e) represented in this Chamber, when we discuss directly how much we charge 2(1)(e)s that they should declare an interest?
The Deputy Bailiff :
Yes, that is a matter which can be considered. We now move on to the urgent oral question that has been approved to be asked by the Connétable of St. Brelade to the Minister for the Environment in respect of the current fishing disagreement with France. I will allow 10 minutes of supplementary questions in relation to that question when it has been asked.