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Corporate Services Scrutiny Panel
Records of Meetings
Year: 2022
The following records of meetings have been approved by the Panel. Signed
Chair,
Senator Kristina Moore
Corporate Services Scrutiny Sub-Panel
Record of Meeting
Meeting held by video conference
Date: 5th January 2022
Present | Senator Kristina Moore , Chair (Items 1-3, 5-10) Deputy Steve Ahier , Vice Chair Senator Steve Pallett Senator Tracey Vallois |
In attendance | Item 4 Only (Fiscal Strategy Group): Amy Bryant, Deputy Chief Executive, Jersey Finance Alex Ohlsson, Partner, Carey Olsen John Shenton, Director, Grant Thornton Katie Griffiths, Committee and Panel Officer Theo Stone, Research & Project Officer Ella Nicholls, Communications Officer |
Agenda matter | Action |
1. Records of Meetings The Panel approved the records of the meetings held on the 28th October 2021 and the 5th, 8th, 11th, 12th, 22nd and 26th November 2021, and the 2nd and 10th December 2021. The Panel agreed to edit the minutes of the 30th November 2021 to alter the commencement date for reform of Legal Aid to 1st March 2022, and that the rapporteurs outlined in the minutes of the 7th December 2021 would reflect the States Assembly's Hansard. | KG |
2. COVID-19 Response and Recovery Review The Panel noted the latest treasury figures dated 22nd December 2021. The Panel received an update on potential changes to the Terms of Reference of the Safer Travel Guidelines Review Panel from the Chair. The Panel were advised that the Review Panel would actively be seeking additional members if the alterations to the Safer Travel Guidelines Review Panel's Terms of Reference were agreed by the Scrutiny Liaison Committee. The Chair agreed to meet with the Chairs of the Safer Travel Guidelines Review Panel and the Public Accounts Committee to clarify the future remit of the Panel in relation to its COVID-19 Response and Recovery Review. | KG |
3. Enveloped Property Transaction Tax Review The Panel noted the Scoping Document and Terms of Reference for its review of the lodged Proposition [P.110.2021] Draft Taxation (Enveloped Property Transactions) (Jersey) Law 202- (the Proposition). The Chair declared a conflict of interest to the Panel's review due to owning share transfer properties. The Panel agreed the Chair would not be part of its review and the Panel agreed that the Vice Chair would lead its review and that the Scoping Document would be updated to reflect the conflict of interest. The Panel agreed to seek advice from the Bailiff and the Greffier of the States as to how the Proposition would be debated given Conflicts of Interest arising from States Members owning share transfer properties. The Panel agreed to edit the Scoping Document to include reference to its potential impact on children and to include Jersey Finance and property developers to its list of stakeholders. The Panel recalled that an Order was due to be published by the Minister for Treasury and Resources on Enveloped Property Transactions Tax, with economic analysis in January 2022. The Panel noted that the documents were fundamental to the timetable of its review and agreed to include reference to this in its letter to the Minister for Treasury and Resources upon the launch of its review. The Panel approved its Scoping Document and Terms of Reference, subject to agreed amendments, and to send to the Scrutiny Liaison Committee for approval. | KG |
4. Private Briefing with the Fiscal Strategy Group Regarding the Enveloped Property Transactions Tax The Panel welcomed members of the Fiscal Strategy Group to a private briefing on Enveloped Property Transactions Tax. The meeting was held in private in accordance with the Freedom of Information (Jersey) Law 2011 (as amended) under Qualified Exemption Article 35. | KG |
5. P.92/2021 – Changes to the Objects and Purpose of the Ann Alice Rayner The Panel noted and discussed a Comments Paper presented to the States Assembly on 14th December 2021 by the Minister for Treasury and Resources and noted a briefing paper prepared by Officers comparing the Panel and the Ministers Comments Paper's. The Panel agreed to write to the Charities Commissioner to determine his views on the Philanthropic' detail highlighted in the Minister's Comment Paper. The Panel further agreed to write to the Minister for Treasury and Resources to confirm whether she intended to re-lodge the Proposition to remove reference to the word Philanthropic' and that the letter would request clarification on the lines of accountability within the Proposition. The Panel also agreed to approach the Jersey Nursing Association to understand their views on the Comments Paper to the Ann Alice Rayner Fund. | KG |
The Panel considered recommending that the Minister make public on a regular basis the availability of and access to funds within Jersey, including the Ann Alice Rayner Fund. |
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6. Quarterly Public Hearing with the Minister for Treasury and Resources The Panel noted that its next Public Hearing with the Minister for Treasury and Resources would be on Wednesday 26th January 2022 at 14:00 and agreed to include questions on the Corporate Tax Rate introduced by the OECD, bills for repayments from the Co-Funded Payroll Scheme, and the declaration of conflicts of interest by Ministers as part of decision-making linked to the Co-Funded Payroll Scheme. The Panel noted concerns raised by members of the public through social media on issues experienced with the receipt of tax returns. The Panel further agreed to request an update on borrowing and changes to interest rates, and to consider the inclusion of references to the Minister's latest Ministerial Decisions during its Public Hearing with the Minister for Treasury and Resources. The Panel further noted a letter of instruction from the Treasurer of the States and Director General for Customer and Local Services to the Minister for Treasury and Resources regarding the extension of the Co-Funded Payroll Scheme and agreed to raise questions at its Public Hearing. The Panel noted that Officers had requested the minutes of the Fiscal Strategy Oversight Group for review. The Panel also noted the use of Reserve Funding for the Purchase of Le Catillon II Coin Hoard and the discrepancies in valuation and agreed to include it as a line of questioning within the Public Hearing. | KG |
7. Use of Consultants The Panel noted the publication of R.187/2021 – Consultants – use by the Government of Jersey (P.59/2019) Report by the Chief Minister – December 2021 and agreed to question the Minister for Treasury and Resources on the content of the report during its Quarterly Public Hearing. | KG |
8. Work Programme The Panel reviewed and approved its work programme for the remainder of its term. The Panel noted that the Privileges and Procedures Committee was also looking at the proposed changes to the States of Jersey Employment (Jersey) Law, and that Senator Vallois, as the Chair of the respective Privileges and Procedures Committee Sub-Panel on democratic accountability would provide an update to the Panel in due course. | KG |
9. Items for Communication The Panel agreed that the Vice Chair would approve the press notice announcing the launch of its Enveloped Property Transaction Tax review. |
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10. Next Meeting The Panel noted that its next meeting would take place on 11th January 2022 at 10:30am on Microsoft Teams. |
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Record of Meeting
Meeting held by video conference
Date: 11th January 2022
Present | Senator Kristina Moore , Chair Deputy Steve Ahier , Vice Chair Senator Steve Pallett Senator Tracey Vallois |
In attendance | Katie Griffiths, Committee and Panel Officer Theo Stone, Research & Project Officer Ella Nicholls, Communications Officer |
Agenda matter | Action |
1. Records of Meetings The Panel approved the public minutes of its meeting on the 5th January 2022. |
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2. Private Briefing on the Official Analyst Law The Panel noted that its private briefing with Government Officers on the Official Analyst Law would be rescheduled, with an agreed date to be confirmed. The Panel agreed to request a copy of the contract of the Chief Statistician, to understand if any changes to remit would take effect following the implementation of the Official Analyst Law. The Panel noted concerns regarding the clarity of the term professional independence', and further noted the absence of reference to Jersey Water within the draft legislation and agreed to request clarity on why it had not been included. | KG |
3. Draft Royal Court (Amendment No. 16) (Jersey) Law 202- [P.126/2021] The Panel noted the Proposition [P.126/2021] lodged by the Chief Minister for debate on 8th February 2022. The Panel noted the shift in the size of the electoral colleges for advocates and solicitors and States Members since 1948 and considered whether changes should be made to the Electoral College to balance the influence of the legal profession and States Members. The Panel agreed to write to the Bailiff of Jersey to seek his views on the current electoral system, and to consider drafting a comments paper for the next States Assembly to consider. The Panel noted the Review of the Roles of the Crown Officers published in 2010 and gave consideration to whether the future system should receive further scrutiny regarding the diversity of appointments and the use of Juries under the Criminal Procedure (Jersey) Law 2018. | KG |
4. Amendment (No.54) to Standing Orders – Amendments to the Codes of Conduct for elected members and related matters [P.1/2021] The Panel noted the lodging of the Proposition [P.1/2022] lodged by the Privileges and Procedures Committee for debate on 8th February 2022. Senator Vallois declared an interest as Vice-Chair of the Privileges and Procedures Committee. The Panel agreed to request a private briefing with the Greffier of the States to discuss the Proposition and to raise its concerns regarding the number of close relatives that would be required to declare and various remunerations, as well as the risk of undeclared interests. | KG |
5. Changes to the Objects and Purpose of the Ann Alice Rayner Fund [P.92/2021] The Panel noted the response from the Minister for Treasury and Resources to its letter of 7th January 2022. The Panel noted the Minister's reference to the Charitable Fund Oversight Board. The Panel agreed to respond to the Minister, thanking her for her response and requesting confirmation of acceptance of the Panel's Comments regarding the provision of formal consultation on the outcomes of the Pilot Programme, and to understand what her intentions were in regard to the operation of the Office of the Public Trustee and its respective timeframe. The Panel agreed to request its Communications Officer to prepare social media posts highlighting the Panel's response as agreed in Item 5 to the Minister for Treasury and Resources' letter regarding the Ann Alice Rayner Fund. | KG |
6. Quarterly Hearing Timetable 2022 The Panel considered the timetable for quarterly hearings with the Chief Minister and Minister for Treasury and Resources until the June General Election. The Panel noted that the Chair would not be present for any public hearings on the 6th April 2022. The Panel further agreed to move its public hearing with the Chief Minister to the 11th March 2022. | KG |
7. Work Programme The Panel received an updated copy of its Work Programme and noted that the Panel's review of COVID-19 would be moved to the Safer Travel Guidelines Review Panel, subject to confirmation by the Scrutiny Liaison Committee. |
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8. Enveloped Property Transactions Tax The Panel noted that it had not yet received details of the economic analysis regarding Enveloped Property Transactions Tax and noted receipt of the draft order. The Panel noted the need to receive information on similar tax regimes in other jurisdictions and agreed to arrange a briefing on Enveloped Property Taxation in Guernsey. | KG |
9. Next Meeting The Panel noted that its next meeting would take place on 25th January 2022 at 10:30am on Microsoft Teams. |
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Record of Meeting
Meeting held by video conference
Date: 19th January 2022
Present | Deputy Steve Ahier , Vice Chair Senator Tracey Vallois |
Apologies | Senator Steve Pallett |
In attendance | Katie Griffiths, Committee and Panel Officer Peter Lamy , Research & Project Officer |
Agenda matter | Action |
1. Enveloped Property Transaction Tax Review The Panel noted and discussed a letter received from the Minister for Treasury and Resources (the Minister) on 17 January 2022. The Panel expressed concern that the Minister had indicated that it was her understanding that Standing Order 72(10) limited the Panel's ability to call P.119/2021 Draft Taxation (Enveloped Property | KG KG KG KG |
The Panel noted and discussed draft economic analysis undertaken by London Economic on the impact of the proposed Enveloped Property Transactions Tax. The Panel, recalling that the Minister had indicated that this would be published, agreed that stakeholders should be requested to provide comments on the economic analysis. The Panel agreed that Government of Jersey would be requested to forward reports produced privately by Deloitte and referred to in the economic analysis. The Panel agreed that a letter to the Minister and Minister for Economic Development, Tourism, Sport and Culture would be sent requesting views on the impact of the proposed Enveloped Property Transactions Tax on elements under his remit. The Panel discussed potential amendments to P.119.2021 and agreed that these would be considered following further understanding of the impact of Standing Order 72(10). The Panel discussed submissions made to the Enveloped Property Transaction Tax Review and noted that deadline for further submissions had been communicated as 28 January 2022. The Panel agreed that the Minister would be requested to attend upon it for a Public Hearing as part of its Enveloped Property Transaction Tax Review on either 27 January or 2 February 2022. |
2. Future Meetings The Panel noted that its next meeting was scheduled to take place on Tuesday 25th January 2022 at 10.30am via Teams. |
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Corporate Services Scrutiny Panel
Record of Meeting
Meeting held by video conference
Date: 25th January 2022
Present | Senator Kristina Moore , Chair (Items 1-9 only) Deputy Steve Ahier , Vice Chair Senator Steve Pallett Senator Tracey Vallois Item 14 only: Environment, Housing and Infrastructure Scrutiny Panel: Connétable Mike Jackson , Chair Deputy Inna Gardiner Deputy Steve Luce |
Apologies | Connétable John Le Maistre (Item 14 only) |
In attendance | Item 14 only: Nick Hubbard, Official Analyst Francis Walker , Senior Policy Officer (Policy Principal) Katie Griffiths, Committee & Panel Officer Nikita Hall , Committee & Panel Officer (Item 14 only) Theo Stone, Research & Project Officer Ella Nicholls, Communications Officer |
Agenda matter | Action |
1. Records of Meetings The Panel approved the records of the meetings held on the 11th January 2022. The Panel agreed to edit Item 8 of the minutes, from the 11th January 2022, to note that it would consider the opportunity for a briefing from officers in Guernsey regarding similar tax regimes for its Enveloped Property Transactions Tax Review. | KG |
2. COVID-19 Response and Recovery Review The Panel noted the latest treasury figures dated 20th January 2022. The Panel received an update from the Chair regarding the remit of the Safer Travel Guidelines Review Panel and noted that the Corporate Services Scrutiny Panel would continue to scrutinise the work of the Chief Minister. The Panel noted its concern regarding the lack of press conferences and public discussion by the Council of Ministers and Competent Authorities since the introduction of the current COVID-19 guidelines. The Panel agreed to draft a letter to the Chief Minister regarding the need for increased communication with the public, to note the lack | KG |
of receipt of the Competent Authorities minutes, and to request an outline of the planned responsibilities and accountabilities during the 2022 General Election. |
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3. GST Personal Importation Review The Panel noted receipt of a copy of the Ministerial Response from the Minister for Treasury and Resources to the report on GST Personal Importation. The Panel noted the lack of accountability regarding impact assessments for low income families. The Panel noted that the Review Sub-Group intended to meet and discuss the drafting of a response to the Executive Response. The Panel further agreed to raise questions to the Minister for Treasury and Resources at its Quarterly Hearing on Wednesday 26th January 2022. | KG |
4. Amendment (No. 54) to Standing Orders – Amendments to the Codes of Conduct for Elected Members and Related Matters [P.1/2022] The Panel noted its private briefing with the Greffier of the States and Chair of the Privileges and Procedures Committee on 19th January 2022. The Panel further noted that the Greffier of the States had provided an overview of a comparison between the Proposition and other jurisdictions, and that the Bailiff of Jersey would provide guidelines to outline actions for Members to take if the Amendment was passed. The Panel was concerned that it was conflicted in assessing the Proposition further and that an independent adviser may provide impartial expertise. The Panel agreed to consider its position further and ascertain whether it would be beneficial to draft a letter to the Jersey Bankers Association and to contact the former Professor of Politics at the University of Plymouth, Dr Adrian Lee. | KG |
5. Draft Ecclesiastical Legislation (Consequential Amendments) (Jersey) Law 202-[P.10/2G022] Order in Council: Adoption of New Canons [P.12//2022] Order in Council regarding the attachment of Jersey to the Diocese of Salisbury and adoption of new Canons [R.8/2022] The Panel noted its private briefing held on 14th January 2022 with the Dean of Jersey and the Assistant Chief Minister in relation to the Propositions and Report relating to draft Ecclesiastical Legislation and adopting of new Canons. The Panel noted the Assistant Chief Minister's intention to lodge a Comments Paper. |
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6. Draft Public Holidays and Bank Holidays (Amendment No. 4) (Jersey) Act 2020- [P.5.2022] The Panel noted the Proposition lodged by the Chief Minister for debate on 1st March 2022. |
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7. Amendment to Standing Orders – Miscellaneous Amendments The Panel noted the Proposition lodged by the Privileges and Procedures Committee for debate on 8th February 2022 and noted that Senator Vallois held a conflict of interest as a member of the Committee. The Panel agreed to draft a short comments paper to outline its support for the Amendment. | KG |
8. Probate (Amendment) (Jersey) Law 202- The Panel noted draft legislation and a consultation paper for the Probate Law (Amendment) (Jersey) Law 202- provided to the Panel. The Panel agreed to contact the Law Society of Jersey, Funeral Directors and Citizens' Advice Jersey to understand their views on the Proposition following a briefing with the Policy Officer on 1st February 2022. | KG |
9. Employment of States of Jersey Employees (Jersey) Law 2005 The Panel noted receipt of law drafting instructions and further noted the briefing arranged between the Panel and the Policy Officer on 1st February 2022. |
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10. Quarterly Public Hearing – Minister for Treasury and Resources The Panel discussed the draft question plan for its Public Hearing on Wednesday 26th January 2022 at 14:00pm and agreed to include questions on the Ministerial Response to its review of GST Personal Importation which would focus on the lack of accountability in the responses given by the Minister. The Panel further agreed to ask whether updates to the Government of Jersey's fiscal framework had been made since 2018, borrowing status for the new hospital, and to request clarity on the Minister for Treasury and Resource's position on introducing new charges following the approval of P.63/2003. The Panel agreed that it would meet half an hour before the Public Hearing to agree question allocation. | KG |
11. Ministerial Decisions The Panel reviewed the latest Ministerial Decisions made by the Chief Minister and Minister for Treasury and Resources. |
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12. Migration and Population Review Panel The Panel noted the media coverage of the Migration and Population Review Panel and received an update from the Chair – Senator Pallett – that it would not bring an amendment and noted the Review Panel's concerns regarding the proposition. |
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13. Enveloped Property Transactions Tax Review The Panel noted receipt of a letter from the Minister for Treasury and Resources to the Bailiff regarding the enactment of Standing Order 72 (10) to the Proposition and the consequential impact for its Review. The Panel noted the Acte Operatoire lodged to P.119/2021. The Panel noted a written submission from the Corporate Partner of Carey Olsen Jersey LLP and discussed the proposed changes to the Companies (Jersey) Law 1991 and the Acte Operatoire. The Panel agreed to draft Amendments to remove commercial property from the Proposition and to remove proposed changes to the Companies (Jersey) Law 1991 from the Proposition. The Panel further agreed that it would approve the Amendments electronically once they had been drafted to enable lodging to occur to agreed protocol. | KG |
The Panel noted the question plan for its Public Hearing with the Minister for Treasury and Resources on the 27th January 2022. The Panel agreed to question the Acte Operatoire further at its Public Hearing with the Minister for Treasury and Resources. The Panel agreed that it would meet half an hour before the Public Hearing to agree question allocation. |
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14. Proposed Official Analyst Law Briefing The Corporate Services Scrutiny Panel and the Environment, Housing and Infrastructure Scrutiny Panel welcomed the Policy Principal from the Government of Jersey to a private briefing on the proposed Official Analyst Law. The record of this meeting is classified as exempt in accordance with Article 35 of the Freedom of Information (Jersey) Law 2011 (as amended). | KG |
15. Next Meeting The Panel noted that its next formal meeting would take place at 10:30am on Tuesday 1st February 2022, via Microsoft Teams. The Panel noted that it would, during this meeting, receive private briefings on the proposed Probate (Amendment) (Jersey) Law 202- and the proposed Amendment to the Employment of States of Jersey Employees (Jersey) Law 2005 from Policy Officers. The Panel further noted that it would hold a Quarterly Public Hearing with the Minister for Treasury and Resources at 14:00pm on Wednesday 26th January 2022, and a Public Hearing for its Enveloped Property Taxation Tax Review with the Minister for Treasury and Resources at 11:30am on Thursday 27th January 2022, both via Microsoft Teams. |
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Corporate Services Scrutiny Panel
Record of Meeting
Meeting held by video conference
Date: 27th January 2022
Present | Deputy Steve Ahier , Vice Chair Senator Tracey Vallois Senator Steve Pallett |
Apologies |
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In attendance | Peter Lamy , Research & Project Officer Ella Nicholls, Digital and Communications Officer Item 2 only Deputy Susie Pinel, Minister for Treasury and Resources Richard Summersgill, Comptroller of Taxes Fiona Fraser, Deputy Director, Revenue Jersey Greg Boyd, Economist, Economy Department |
Agenda matter | Action |
1. Pre-Hearing Meeting The Panel discussed the upcoming public hearing with the Minister for Treasury and Resources and agreed that a letter with any additional questions would be sent following the hearing. | PL |
2. Public Hearing with the Chief Minister The Panel received the Minister for Treasury and Resources and officers for a public hearing as part of its Enveloped Property Transactions Tax Review. The hearing was recorded and transcribed. |
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3. Post-Hearing meeting The Panel agreed that it would communicate key areas of discussion that had taken place during the hearing, these included:
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that the Minister for Treasury and Resources would be considering delaying the implementation of Enveloped Property Transactions Tax. The Panel agreed that any press release should include mention of the Bailiff s judgment that P.119/2021 was not subject of Standing Order 72 (10) and could therefore be referred for further scrutiny. |
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4. Future meetings The Panel agreed that it would meet at 10am on Tuesday 1st February 2021 via Microsoft Teams to discuss its Enveloped Property Transactions Tax Review further. |
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Record of Meeting
Meeting held by video conference
Date: 1st February 2022
Present | Deputy Steve Ahier , Vice Chair Senator Steve Pallett (Item 2 only) Senator Tracey Vallois |
Apologies | Senator Kristina Moore , Chair |
In attendance | Katie Griffiths, Committee & Panel Officer Peter Lamy , Research & Project Officer (Item 1 only) Theo Stone, Research & Project Officer Kaya Camara, Research & Project Officer (Item 2 onwards) Ella Nicholls, Communications Officer Francis Walker , Senior Policy Officer, Strategic Policy, Planning and Performance (Item 5 only) Ruth Johnson , Head of Policy, Strategic Policy, Planning and Performance (Items 5 and 6 only) Victoria Bell, Legal Advisor, Law Officers' Department (Item 6 only) |
Agenda matter | Action |
1. Enveloped Property Transactions Tax Review The Panel noted the letter received from the Bailiff of Jersey regarding the use of Standing Order 72(10) which confirmed that the Panel would be able to call in the Proposition, if required, and was not exempt as indicated in correspondence received from the Minister for Treasury and Resources. The Panel noted written submissions received for its review from Carey Olsen, Fiscal Strategy Group, D2 Real Estate, Law Society and Jersey Landlords' Association. The Panel noted that its two Amendments to P.119/2021 had been lodged as well as an Amendment by the Minister for Treasury and Resources [the Minister]. The Panel noted that the Minister had indicated an intention to agree the Panel's first Amendment but not its second Amendment during the Assembly debate. Following a review of written submissions and based on the answers provided at its Public Hearing with the Minister for Treasury and Resources the Panel agreed that the primary concerns highlighted in its second Amendment had been addressed. The Panel concluded it would therefore withdraw its second Amendment from the Assembly debate on the expectation that its first Amendment and the Minister for Treasury and Resources Amendment would be agreed by the Assembly. The Panel noted its draft Comments Paper and agreed it would be altered to reflect the removal of the second Amendment and would highlight further the responsibilities of the Minister and the intention of the Panel to agree the Proposition on the proviso that the | KG |
Assembly adopts the first and third Amendments. The Panel agreed that it would approve the final version of its Comments Paper electronically. |
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2. Draft Royal Court (Amendment No. 16) (Jersey) Law 202- [P.126/2021] The Panel noted the reply to the Panel's letter from the Bailiff of Jersey regarding the appointment of Jurats and agreed to discuss it further during its meeting on 15th February 2022 as part of its legacy report. | KG |
3. Amendment (No. 54) to Standing Orders – Amendment to the Codes of Conduct for Elected Members and Related Matters The Panel agreed to discuss this item at its meeting on 15th February 2022 as the debate on the Proposition had been rescheduled to take place on 1st March 2022. | KG |
4. Ministerial Decisions The Panel noted the publication of the Fiscal Stimulus Update Report: January 2022 by the Minister for Treasury and Resources and agreed to add the report to the Agenda of its next Panel meeting for further discussion. | KG |
5. Private Briefing on Employment of States of Jersey Employees (Jersey) Law 2005 – Phase 1 The Panel welcomed Government of Jersey Officers to a private briefing on Phase 1 of the proposed changes to the Employment of States of Jersey Employees (Jersey) Law 2005. The record of this meeting was classified as exempt in accordance with Article 35 of the Freedom of Information (Jersey) Law 2011 (as amended). | KG |
6. Private Briefing on Probate (Amendment) (Jersey) Law 202- The Panel welcomed Government of Jersey Officers to a private briefing on the draft Probate (Amendment) (Jersey) Law 202-. The record of this meeting was classified as exempt in accordance with Article 35 of the Freedom of Information (Jersey) Law 2011 (as amended). | KG |
7. Next Meeting The Panel noted that its next formal meeting would take place at 10:30am on Tuesday 15th February 2022 in the Blampied Room, and that its GST Personal Importation Sub- Group would meet at 13:00pm on Friday 11th February 2022 via Microsoft Teams. |
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Record of Meeting
Meeting held by video conference
Date: 3rd February 2022
Present | Deputy Steve Ahier , Vice Chair Senator Tracey Vallois Senator Steve Pallett |
Apologies |
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In attendance | Katie Griffiths, Committee and Panel Officer Peter Lamy , Research & Project Officer |
Agenda matter | Action |
1. Enveloped Property Transaction Tax Review The Panel noted and discussed an Addendum to P.119/2021 Draft Taxation (Enveloped Property Transactions) (Jersey) Law 202- [P.119/2021 Add.(3)], lodged that day. The Panel agreed that there was insufficient time to scrutinise the addendum prior to the debate of P.119/2021 on 8th February 2021. The Panel noted and discussed an updated draft comments paper on P.119/2021 as a result of its Enveloped Property Transaction Tax Review. A number of revisions were requested, and it was agreed that these would be reviewed electronically. Approval was subsequently given to lodge the comments with the Assembly that day. | KG |
Corporate Services Scrutiny Panel
Record of Meeting
Date: 15th February 2022
Present | Deputy Steve Ahier , Vice Chair Senator Steve Pallett Senator Tracey Vallois (Item 5 to 11 only) |
Apologies | Senator Kristina Moore , Chair |
In attendance | Katie Griffiths, Committee & Panel Officer Peter Lamy , Research & Project Officer |
Agenda matter | Action |
1. Records of Meetings The Panel approved the records of the meetings held on the 19th, 25th and 27th January 2022 and 1st and 3rd February 2022. |
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2. COVID-19 Response and Recovery Review The Panel noted the latest treasury figures dated 9th February 2022. The Panel noted and discussed the Fiscal Stimulus Update Report [R.12/2022]. The Panel expressed concern that a number of projects which had been granted an extension of their delivery to March or June 2022 could continue to struggle to meet project deadlines. Further concern was expressed at potential overspend by some projects and the source of funding in these cases. The Panel considered political responsibility for further extension of project deadlines and funding allocation should these be needed during the election period and agreed that the Chief Minister or Minister for Treasury and Resources would potentially need to be questioned on the topic. The Panel agreed that actions undertaken by the Economic and International Affairs Scrutiny Panel would be studied prior to any actions being taken. The Panel noted and discussed a letter received 11th February 2022 from the Minister for Treasury and Resources regarding the Co-Funded Payroll Scheme. The Panel expressed concern that no formal appeals process appeared to exist when funding was requested to be refunded, noting that there had been confusion on eligibility to take part in different phases of the scheme. The Panel agreed that questions would be put to the Chief Minister at its Public Hearing on the 4th March 2022 to ascertain his views on the matter. | KG |
3. Government Plan 2022-25 Review The Panel noted receipt of a copy of the joint Ministerial Response from the Chief Minister and Minister for Treasury and Resources on findings and recommendations made in S.R.20/2021. The Panel agreed that no further action was required at that time. |
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4. Draft Royal Court (Amendment No.16) (Jersey) Law 202- [P.126/2021] |
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The Panel noted and discussed a reply to the Panel's letter from the Bailiff regarding the appointment of Jurats dated 26th January 2022. The Panel agreed that the topic should be included in its legacy report. | KG |
5. Amendment (No.54) to Standing Orders – Amendments to the Codes of Conduct for elected members and related matters [P.1/2022] The Panel noted and discussed P.1/2022 and was informed by Senator Vallois, as a member of the Privileges and Procedures Committee (PPC), that an amendment was due to be lodged by PPC following further consultation with the States Assembly and the Panel agreed no further action was necessary at this time. |
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6. Draft Public Elections (Donations to Political Parties – Threshold Amount) (Jersey) Regulations 202- [P.15/2022] The Panel noted and discussed P.15/2022 and agreed that no further action was necessary at that time. |
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7. Council of Ministers The Panel noted and discussed papers from meetings of the Council of Ministers held 1st and 7th February 2021. The Panel agreed that the review of the Public Inquiries Law would be mentioned in its legacy report. The Panel further agreed that a letter should be sent to the Chief Minister, requesting detail on the outcome of the consultation - Regulation of Public Appointments: An Independent Jersey Public Appointments Commission and the lodging timetable for the different phases of the proposed changes to the Employment of the States of Jersey Employees (Jersey) Law 2005. | KG |
8. Quarterly Hearing with Chief Minister The Panel noted and discussed a Quarterly Hearing with the Chief Minister, scheduled to take place on 4th March 2022. The Panel agreed that a question plan would be formed to include topics such as: • the Co-Funded Payroll Scheme • Employment of the States of Jersey Employees Law • Delay of the Public Service Ombudsman • Ministerial Responses to its reviews • Any questions from members of the public | KG |
9. Draft Ecclesiastical Legislation (Consequential Amendments) (Jersey) Law 202- [P.10/2022] The Panel discussed the Draft Ecclesiastical Legislation (Consequential Amendments) (Jersey) Law 202- [P.10/2022] and Order in Council: adoption of new Canons [P.12/2022]. Recalling that it had received a private briefing on the matter on 14th January 2022, the Panel agreed that a letter would be sent to the Assistant Chief Minister to request clarification as to whether comments or addendum could be expected to be lodged prior to debate of P.10/2022 to provide further information for the States Assembly. | KG |
10. Items for communication The Panel agreed that there were no items for communication at that stage. |
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11. Work Programme The Panel noted and discussed an updated work programme to the election period. The Panel noted the removal of Propositions by Government for the Financial Stability Board and Public Inquiries Law and agreed to refer both to its legacy report rather than its review programme. The Panel noted a potential delay to the Proposition for Phase 1 changes to Employment of the States of Jersey Employees Law 2005. The Panel noted the imminent lodging of the Proposition relating to Probate Law and concluded that no further action was required at that time. |
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12. Any Other Business The Panel discussed the application of Goods and Services Tax to food items, and if this could be eased to allow for relief during times of greater economic inflation, recalling that it had amended the Government Plan 2020-23 to include an increase in the Food Costs Bonus. The Panel agreed that at this time any changes should fall under the remit of the Health and Social Services Scrutiny Panel. |
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13. Future Meetings The Panel noted that its next meeting was scheduled to take place on Tuesday 8th March 2022 at 10.30am in the Blampied Room. |
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Corporate Services Scrutiny Sub-Panel
Goods and Services Tax Personal Importation Review
Record of Meeting
Date: 16th February 2022
Present | Senator Steve Pallett, Chair (appointed for review) Deputy Steve Ahier , Vice Chair Connétable Andy Jehan (Co-opted Member for Goods and Services Tax Personal Importation Review) |
In attendance | Katie Griffiths, Committee & Panel Officer Peter Lamy , Research & Project Officer |
Agenda matter | Action | |
KG | ||
The Panel agreed that it would suggest that GST Personal Importation be included in the Corporate Services Scrutiny Panel's legacy report. |
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Corporate Services Scrutiny Panel
Record of Meeting
Date: 8th March 2022
Present | Senator Kristina Moore , Chair Deputy Steve Ahier , Vice Chair Senator Tracey Vallois |
Apologies | Senator Steve Pallett |
In attendance | Katie Griffiths, Committee & Panel Officer Janice Hales , Committee & Panel Officer (Item 6 only) Peter Lamy , Research & Project Officer Item 6 only: Deputy David Johnson , Chair, Economic and International Affairs Panel Senator Ian Gorst , Minister for External Relations Cora O'Brien, Deputy Comptroller of Revenue Jeremiah Coder, Deputy Director, International Tax Policy Emma Nielsen, Senior Specialist Officer Item 3 only: Private witness |
Agenda matter | Action |
1. Records of Meetings The Panel approved the records of the meetings held on the 15th and 16th February 2022. |
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2. COVID-19 Response and Recovery Review The Panel noted the latest treasury figures dated 2nd March 2022. The Panel received and discussed written submissions and analysis concerning repayment of Co-Funded Payroll Scheme (CFPS) subsidies. The Panel was informed by the Chair that she had been in correspondence with a number of individuals who had raised concerns in the area and were taking their cases to Government of Jersey Officers as a constituency matter. The Panel was informed that the Public Accounts Committee was receiving a private briefing on administration of the CFPS, and that an invitation for Panel members to attend would be extended. The Panel noted and discussed a letter from the Minister for Treasury and Resources received 7th February 2022 regarding the CPFS. The Panel agreed that a response letter should be forwarded expressing its thanks for the correspondence, however, stating | KG |
disappointment at the sentiment of the letter and asking for the Minister for Treasury and Resources to reconsider her position in light of further evidence received by the Panel. It was further agreed that a letter would be sent to Senator Lyndon Farnham outlining the situation and correspondence that had taken place on the CFPS, in order to gain his views on the matter as Deputy Chief Minister and Minister for Economic Development, Tourism, Sport and Culture. The Panel agreed that the letter should be forwarded to the Chair of the Economic and International Affairs Panel for his awareness. Senator Tracey Vallois reminded the Panel that she may hold a Conflict of Interest in the matter, having been Minister for Education and a member of the Council of Ministers during the implementation of early phases of the CFPS. The Panel agreed that subject to a public interest test the issue of CFPS repayment may have been of interest to the Comptroller and Auditor General (C&AG), noting her report "Government support to businesses during the COVID-19 pandemic – Co-Funded | KG KG KG KG |
The Panel agreed that the letters regarding the CFPS should be forwarded to the Chair of the Public Accounts Committee for her awareness. The Panel noted and discussed correspondence from the National Trust for Jersey regarding the Fiscal Stimulus Fund which offered to meet with the Panel to expand upon its project that had been allocated subsidy through that Fund. The Panel agreed that due to constraints of its work programming and recalling the States Assembly was due to sit in the coming weeks, it would not meet with the National Trust for Jersey at that time and that a letter outlining this should be sent in response. | |
3. Private Meeting with witness: COVID-19 Response and Recovery Review The Panel welcomed a private witness to discuss its COVID-19 Response and Recovery Review. This meeting was held in private in accordance with the Freedom of Information (Jersey) Law 2011 (as amended) under Absolute Exemption Article 26 and Qualified Exemption Article 34. |
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4. Government Plan 2022 – 25 Amendment 22: Stamp Duty The Panel noted and discussed a private letter from the Minister for Treasury and Resources regarding the introduction of a higher Stamp Duty rate for Buy to Let' investment properties, second homes and holiday homes following the Panel's adopted amendment to the Government Plan 2022 – 25. The Panel agreed that a response letter would be sent thanking the Minister for Treasury and Resources for her correspondence and express its hope that reviews in other areas of Stamp Duty would not be delayed noting that adequate time to conduct those reviews had taken place and that previous work, such as the 2014 report "Property Tax Review: Publication of Green Paper and PWC Paper" could be used to inform policy | KG |
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The Panel agreed that the introduction of a higher Stamp Duty rate for Buy to Let' investment properties, second homes and holiday homes would be a topic for further review to be indicated in its legacy report. |
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5. GST Personal Importation Review The Panel discussed a letter sent by the Minister for Treasury and Resources received by the GST Personal Importation Review Sub-Panel. Deputy Ahier , as a member of the Sub-Panel, highlighted that the letter had not been discussed by the Sub-Panel and indicated that forward actions were yet to be agreed. The Panel agreed that a review of Goods and Services Tax, including the delegated power of the Comptroller of Revenue to alter de Minimis level, would be a topic for further review to be indicated in its legacy report. | KG |
6. OECD International Taxation The Panel joined the Chair of the Economic and International Affairs Panel for a briefing by the Minister for External Relations and officers on compliance with the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) international taxation policies. This meeting was held in private in accordance with the Freedom of Information (Jersey) Law 2011 (as amended) under Qualified Exemption Article 35. |
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7. Draft Income Tax (Amendment of Law - Limited Liability Companies) (Jersey) Regulations 202- [P.25/2022] The Panel noted and discussed the proposition Draft Income Tax (Amendment of Law - Limited Liability Companies) (Jersey) Regulations 202- [P.25/2022]. The Panel noted that the Economic and International Affairs Panel had indicated that they would be reviewing the proposition and as such agreed that no further action would be taken at that time. |
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8. Rate Appeal Board: Appointment of Members [P.16/2022] The Panel noted and discussed the Proposition Rate Appeal Board: Appointment of Members [P.16/2022]. The Panel agreed that no further action would be taken at that time. |
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9. Draft Official Analyst (Jersey) Law 202- [P.41/2022] The Panel noted and discussed the Proposition Draft Official Analyst (Jersey) Law 202- [P.41/2022]. The Panel recalled that the Environment, Housing and Infrastructure Panel | KG |
had been conducting scrutiny of elements of the proposition relating to food hygiene, and as such agreed that Panel would be updated of any further action. The Panel agreed that a comments paper should be formed to outline the Panel's views on P.41/2022, specifically highlighting:
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The Panel agreed that Amendments to the Proposition may be required, in relation to lines of accountability. and that further consideration would be given to their formation. |
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10. Probate (Amendment) (Jersey) Law 202- [P.42/2022] The Panel discussed the Proposition Probate Law (Amendment) (Jersey) Law 202- [P.42/2022]. The Panel agreed to send a letter to the Chief Minister requesting that replies to consultation on the matter be forwarded and clarification be provided on how value of items for burial included in the Proposition had been decided. The Panel agreed that the letter would also be forwarded to the Viscount for her awareness. | KG |
11. Draft Stamp Duties and Fees (No. 5) (Jersey) Regulations 202- [P.43/2022] The Panel noted and discussed the proposition Draft Stamp Duties and Fees (No. 5) (Jersey) Regulations 202- [P.43/2022]. The Panel agreed that no comments paper or amendments were required, however, agreed that it would speak on the Proposition during its debate and would prepare speaking points. | KG |
12. Maintenance of Jersey's credit rating [P.18/2022] The Panel noted and discussed the proposition Maintenance of Jersey's credit rating [P.18/2022]. The Panel agreed that no further action would be taken at that time. |
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13. Council of Ministers The Panel noted and discussed relevant papers from the Council of Ministers meetings held 15th, 23rd and 25th February 2022. The Panel agreed that questions would be put to the Chief Minister and Minister for Treasury and Resources during upcoming Quarterly Hearings. | KG |
14. Quarterly Public Hearing – Chief Minister The Panel noted that the Chief Minister had regrettably been unable to attend the Quarterly Hearing scheduled for Friday 4th March 2022 as he was carrying out an official visit to the United States of America. The Panel agreed that the Quarterly Hearing should be rescheduled for Thursday 24th March 2022 at 5.30pm, or Tuesday 12th April 2022 if required. | KG |
15. Quarterly Public Hearing – Minister for Treasury and Resources The Panel noted that a Quarterly Hearing with the Minister for Treasury and Resources was scheduled to take place on 1st April 2022. The Panel agreed that questioning areas would include:
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16. Ministerial Decisions The Panel reviewed the latest Ministerial Decisions made by the Chief Minister and Minister for Treasury and Resources. The Panel agreed that no further action would be taken at that time. |
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17. Panel communications The Panel discussed areas of its work for public communication. The Panel agreed that a media release detailing its work regarding the Co-Funded Payroll Scheme repayments would be formed. The Panel agreed that questions from the public would be sought to put to the Minister for Treasury Resources in the Quarterly Hearing scheduled to take place on 1st April 2022. | KG KG |
18. Panel Work Programme The Panel discussed its updated work programme. The Panel noted that amendments to the Employment of the States of Jersey Employees Law would not be lodged until the next term of government and agreed that they should be included as an area of potential review within its legacy report. | KG |
19. Next Meeting The Panel noted continuation of the States Assembly sittings during the 14th March to 1st April 2022 period inclusive and agreed that its next formal meeting would be scheduled to take place on Tuesday 5th April 2022. . |
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Date: 16th March 2022
Present | Senator Kristina Moore , Chair Deputy Steve Ahier , Vice Chair Senator Steve Pallett |
Apologies | Senator Tracey Vallois |
In attendance | Deputy David Johnson , Chair, Economic and International Affairs Panel Deputy Steve Luce , Member, Economic and International Affairs Panel Richard Corrigan, Director General, Economy Department Steve Skelton, Group Director, Strategy and Innovation Tony Moretta, Chief Executive Officer, Digital Jersey Janice Hales , Committee & Panel Officer Anna Thorne , Committee & Panel Officer Peter Lamy , Research & Project Officer Ben Walker , Research & Project Officer |
Agenda matter | Action |
1. Technology Accelerator Fund The Panel welcomed Officers and the Chief Executive of Digital Jersey for a briefing on the Technology Accelerator Fund. The Panel was joined by members of the Economic and International Affairs Panel. This meeting was held in private in accordance with the Freedom of Information (Jersey) Law 2011 (as amended) under Qualified Exemption Article 35. |
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Date: 30th March 2022
Present | Senator Kristina Moore , Chair Deputy Steve Ahier , Vice Chair Senator Steve Pallett |
Apologies | Senator Tracey Vallois |
In attendance | Katie Griffiths, Committee & Panel Officer Peter Lamy , Research & Project Officer |
Agenda matter | Action |
1. Quarterly Public Hearing – Minister for Treasury and Resources The Panel discussed the Quarterly Hearing with the Minister for Treasury and Resources scheduled to take place on 1st April 2022 at 12:30. The Panel noted and discussed a draft question plan and agreed that alterations would be made. The Panel, recognising that a sitting of the States Assembly would possibly continue to the 1st April 2022 and agreed that the Quarterly Hearing would be rescheduled to take place at 14:30 that day. | KG |
2. P.75/2022 Technology Accelerator Fund The Panel noted and discussed scrutiny of the Proposition to establish the Technology Accelerator Fund [P.75/2022] noting that the Economic and International Affairs Panel (EIA) was also considering its position on the topic. The Panel agreed that it would send its own letter highlighting its concerns on the proposition to the Council of Ministers, with the Minister for Treasury and Resources and EIA cc'd. The Panel further agreed that a joint media release would be suitable to outline the actions of both the Panel and EIA. The Panel agreed that members would consider further actions prior to its next meeting. | KG |
3. Next Meeting The Panel noted that its next formal meeting would be scheduled to take place on Tuesday 5th April 2022. . |
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Date: 1st April 2022
Present | Deputy Steve Ahier , Vice Chair Senator Steve Pallett Senator Tracey Vallois |
Apologies | Senator Kristina Moore , Chair |
In attendance | Katie Griffiths, Committee & Panel Officer Peter Lamy , Research & Project Officer Emily Thomas, Campaigns Manager, States Greffe |
Agenda matter | Action |
1. Quarterly Public Hearing – Minister for Treasury and Resources The Panel was informed that the Minister for Treasury and Resources [the Minister] had been taken unwell and would not be able to attend the Quarterly Hearing scheduled to take place that day. The Panel expressed it regrets and expressed its good wishes for a speedy recovery to the Minister. The Panel agreed that the Quarterly hearing should be rescheduled to take place on the 5th or 12th April 2022, and subject to the Minister's recovery, an Assistant Minister may be invited to attend upon the Panel in her place. | KG |
Date: 5th April 2022
Present | Senator Kristina Moore , Chair (absent item 2) Deputy Steve Ahier , Vice Chair Senator Tracey Vallois Senator Steve Pallett |
Apologies |
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In attendance | Katie Griffiths, Committee & Panel Officer Emily Thomas, Campaigns Manager, States Greffe (items 2 and 3 only) Peter Lamy , Research & Project Officer Item 2 only: Deputy Susie Pinel, Minister for Treasury and Resources Deputy Lyndsay Ash, Assistant Minister for Treasury and Resources Richard Bell, Treasurer of the States Richard Summersgill, Comptroller of Revenue Andrew Hacquoil, Group Director, Strategic Finance Phil Ashley, Head of Cost-Benefit Analysis & Investment Appraisal |
Agenda matter | Action |
1. Records of Meetings The Panel approved the records of the meetings held on the 8th, 15th and 30th March 2022 and 1st April 2022. |
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2. Quarterly Public Hearing – Minister for Treasury and Resources The Panel received the Minister for Treasury and Resources and officers for a Quarterly Hearing. The hearing was webcast live, recorded and transcribed. |
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3. Post Hearing discussion The Panel agreed that it would form a press release to communicate key areas of discussion that had taken place during the hearing, these included: • Views expressed on poverty; • The Co-Funded Payroll Scheme; and, • Borrowing. | ET |
4. COVID-19 Response and Recovery Review The Panel noted the latest treasury figures dated 30th March 2022. The Panel received and discussed written submissions and analysis concerning repayment of Co-Funded Payroll Scheme (CFPS) subsidies. |
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The Panel noted and discussed letters regarding the CFPS from: • The Minister for Treasury and Resources dated 23rd March 2022; • Comptroller and Auditor General dated 23rd March 2022; and, • Deputy Chief Minister/Minister for Economic Development, Tourism, Sport and Culture dated the 25th March 2022. The Panel agreed that legal advice would be sought in regards to appealing decisions made as part of the CFPS. The Panel also agreed that it would form a short report detailing its scrutiny of the CFPS. | KG |
5. Legacy Report The Panel noted a Heads of Report for its 2018-2022 Legacy Report. The Panel agreed that the importance of migration review should be mentioned and that potential review subjects should also include pensions, long term tax strategy, property taxation, Jersey Appointment Commission, Revenue Jersey and optimism bias in the Government Plan. Subject to these additions, the Panel approved the Heads of Report. |
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6. Draft Official Analyst (Jersey) Law 202- [P.41/2022] The Panel discussed the Proposition Draft Official Analyst (Jersey) Law 202- [P.41/2022] | KG |
and agreed that amendments would be required to strengthen it in the following areas: • Assembly notification of Official Analyst qualifications and related reasoning prior to appointment by Chief Minister. • Independent evaluation report of Article 3 which related to the dismissal from office of Official Analyst within 6 months of the Law coming into force, commissioned by the Chief Minister and laid before the Assembly for its consideration. • Redrafting of Article 7 (1) to require the Chief Minister to make an annual assessment of the funding required for the Office of the Official Analyst and include clarification that it was the Assembly who would ultimately determine whether to approve or to amend the level of funding for the Official Analyst. • The Schedule of charges under Article 12 of the Law should be provided within the Annual Report of the Official Analyst to the Assembly. The Panel requested its officers to form draft amendments and noted a lodging deadline of 11th April 2022. The Panel noted and discussed a draft comments paper on P.41/2021. The Panel agreed these should be lodged following lodging of the amendments. The Panel recalled that the Environment, Housing and Infrastructure Panel had been conducting scrutiny of elements of the proposition relating to food hygiene and, as such, agreed that Panel would be updated of any further action. | |
7. P.75/2022 Technology Accelerator Fund The Panel discussed P.75/2022 establishment of the Technology Accelerator Fund. The Panel agreed that it would send a letter the Chief Minister requesting that he withdraw the proposition to allow ample scrutiny of the establishment of the Technology Accelerator Fund. | KG |
8. P.42/2022 Draft Probate (Amendment) (Jersey) Law 202- The Panel discussed the Draft Probate (Amendment) (Jersey) Law 202- (P.42/2022) and agreed that a comments paper would be formed. | KG |
9. Draft Stamp Duties and Fees (No. 5) (Jersey) Regulations 202- [P.43/2022] The Panel noted and discussed draft speaking points on the proposition Draft Stamp Duties and Fees (No. 5) (Jersey) Regulations 202- [P.43/2022]. No further action was agreed. | KG |
10. Quarterly Public Hearing – Chief Minister The Panel discussed the Quarterly Hearing with the Chief Minister scheduled for Tuesday 12th April 2022 at 10:30. It was agreed that the Panel would meet half an hour prior to the hearing to discuss the question plan further. | KG |
11. Next Meeting The Panel noted that its next formal meeting would be scheduled to take place on Tuesday 19th April 2022. . |
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Meeting held by video conference
Date: 6th April 2022
Present | Deputy Steve Ahier , Vice Chair Senator Tracey Vallois Public Accounts Committee: Deputy Inna Gardiner (Chair) Connétable Karen Shenton-Stone (Vice-Chair) Connétable John Le Maistre Connétable Andy Jehan Mr Adrian Lane Mr Paul van Bodegom |
Apologies | Senator Kristina Moore , Chair Senator Steve Pallett |
In attendance | Anna Thorne , Committee & Panel Officer Caro Tomlinson, Committee & Panel Officer Katie Griffiths Committee & Panel Officer Peter Lamy , Research & Project Officer Theodore Stone, Research & Project Officer Lynn Pamment, Comptroller and Auditor General Deputy Susie Pinel, Minister for Treasury and Resources Deputy Lindsay Ash, Assistant Minister for Treasury and Resources Richard Bell, Treasurer of the States Abbie Moore , Assistant Private Secretary Alison Weardon, Internal Communications Officer Andrew Hacquoil, Group Director – Strategic Finance Peter Styles, Head of Group Reporting Steve Skelton, Director of Strategy & Innovation |
Agenda matter | Action |
1. Private Briefing with the Minister for Treasury and Resources and the Treasurer of the States on the 2021 Annual Report and Accounts The Corporate Services Scrutiny Panel and Public Accounts Committee welcomed the Minister for Treasury and Resources, Assistant Minister for Treasury and Resources, the Treasurer of the States, and officers from the Government of Jersey to a private briefing on the 2021 States Annual Report and Accounts. The minutes of this meeting are classified as exempt in accordance with the Freedom of Information (Jersey) Law 2011 (as amended) under Qualified Exemption Article 35. |
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Date: 12th April 2022
Present | Senator Kristina Moore , Chair Deputy Steve Ahier , Vice Chair Senator Tracey Vallois Senator Steve Pallett |
Apologies |
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In attendance | Andrew Harris , Principal Committee & Panel Officer (Item 1 only) Ella Nicholls, Communications Officer Peter Lamy , Research & Project Officer Item 2 only: Senator John Le Fondré, Chief Minister Suzanne Wylie, Chief Executive Officer Tom Walker , Director General, Strategic Policy, Planning and Performance Mark Grimley, Group Director, People and Corporate Services Hazel Cunningham, Group Director, Finance Business Partnering & Analytics |
Agenda matter | Action |
1. Pre-Hearing discussion The Panel discussed and agreed question areas for the Quarterly Hearing with the Chief Minister scheduled to take place that day. |
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2. Quarterly Public Hearing – Chief Minister The Panel received Chief Minister and officers for a Quarterly Hearing. The hearing was webcast live, recorded and transcribed. |
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3. Post Hearing discussion The Panel agreed that it would form a press release to communicate key areas of discussion that had taken place during the hearing, these included: • Lack of statutory rights for whistle blowers; • The potential future use of Spend Local cards; • That Government of Jersey staff numbers would not fall for some years; and, • That the benefits of the use of consultants by the Government of Jersey could be better communicated. | ET |
Via Microsoft Teams
Date: 19th April 2022
Present | Senator Kristina Moore , Chair Deputy Steve Ahier , Vice Chair Senator Tracey Vallois Senator Steve Pallett |
Apologies |
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In attendance | Item 2 only: Deputy Rowland Huelin – Assistant Chief Minister Francis Walker – Head of Policy, Strategic Policy, Planning and Performance Katie Griffiths, Committee & Panel Officer |
Agenda matter | Action |
1. Records of Meetings The Panel approved the records of its meetings held on the 5th, 6th and 12th April 2022. |
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2. Draft Official Analyst (Jersey) Law 202- [P.41/2022] The Panel welcomed the Assistant Chief Minister and relevant Government Officer for a meeting on its amendments to the draft Official Analyst (Jersey) Law 202- [P.41/2022]. This meeting was held in private in accordance with the Freedom of Information (Jersey) Law 2011 (as amended) under Qualified Exemption Article 35. | KG |
3. COVID-19 Response and Recovery Review The Panel noted the latest treasury figures dated 13th April 2022. The Panel noted its draft report on the Co-Funded Payroll Scheme. The Panel agreed that it would review the report at its next meeting. | KG |
4. Draft Probate (Amendment) (Jersey) Law 202 [P.42/2022] The Panel noted its draft comments paper for the Draft Probate (Amendment) (Jersey) Law 202- (P.42/2022) and agreed to alter the comments to highlight its concern on the lack of evidence in relation to the monetary threshold stipulated. The Panel agreed it would approve the final version of the comments paper at its next meeting. | KG |
5. PPC Propositions The Panel noted the PPC Propositions lodged for Assembly debate on 25th April 2022. The Panel agreed that no action was required. |
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6. Technology Accelerator Fund [P.75/2022] The Panel noted the response it had received from the Chief Minister on the Technology Accelerator Fund which confirmed that the Council of Ministers would not be withdrawing the proposition from the next assembly debate for scrutiny to complete its work. The Panel agreed to prepare a comments paper for the debate on the Technology Accelerator [P.75/2022] to highlight the limited involvement of scrutiny prior to and following the lodging of the proposition. It was agreed that the comments paper would also consider lessons learnt from previous funds whilst drawing attention to its concerns on the governance, funding and administration of the fund as outlined in the proposition report and terms of reference. The Panel agreed to liaise with the Economic and International Affairs Scrutiny Panel to ascertain its current position in relation to the proposition debate. | KG |
7. Items for Communication The Panel agreed to draft a press notice requesting that Government publish decisions made during the election period, including those of the States Employment Board, to ensure the new assembly and islanders are converse on all matters. | KG |
8. Next Meeting The Panel noted that its next formal meeting would be scheduled to take place on Wednesday 20th April 2022. |
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Via Microsoft Teams
Date: 20th April 2022
Present | Senator Kristina Moore , Chair Deputy Steve Ahier , Vice Chair Senator Tracey Vallois Senator Steve Pallett |
Apologies |
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In attendance | Katie Griffiths, Committee & Panel Officer |
Agenda matter | Action |
1. COVID-19 Response and Recovery Review The Panel agreed its draft report on the Co-Funded Payroll Scheme. The Panel agreed that it would add in an additional recommendation to request that all cases of the co- funded payroll scheme receive a right to appeal for any decisions made during the auditing process. | KG |
2. Draft Probate (Amendment) (Jersey) Law 202- [P.42/2022] The Panel agreed its comments paper on the Draft Probate (Amendment) (Jersey) Law 202- and noted that its concerns on the lack of evidence in relation to the monetary threshold stipulated had been included. | KG |
3. Technology Accelerator Fund [P.75/2022] The Panel noted and agreed its comments paper on the Technology Accelerator Fund [P.75/2022] which highlighted the limited involvement of scrutiny prior to and following the lodging of the proposition. As well as the lessons learnt from previous funds whilst drawing attention to its concerns on the governance, funding and administration of the fund as outlined in the proposition report and terms of reference. | KG |
4. Next Meeting The Panel noted that its next formal meeting was scheduled to take place on Tuesday 3rd May 2022. |
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Date: 29th April 2022
Present | Senator Kristina Moore , Chair Deputy Steve Ahier , Vice Chair Senator Tracey Vallois |
Apologies | Senator Steve Pallett |
In attendance | Peter Lamy , Research and Project Officer |
Agenda matter | Action |
1. COVID-19 Response and Recovery Review The Panel approved its Co-Funded Payroll Scheme Report, produced as part of its COVID-19 Response and Recovery Review, and agreed that it should be presented to the States Assembly that day. Senator Vallois declared an interest in having been a member of the Council of Ministers and an invited member of Competent Authorities Ministers up to 10 January 2021. It was noted that she had taken part in discussions on business support at that time but had not been involved in subsequent decisions discussed within the report. The Panel agreed that a press release would be issued alongside the report. | PL |
Date: 3rd May 2022
Present | Senator Kristina Moore , Chair Deputy Steve Ahier , Vice Chair Senator Tracey Vallois |
Apologies | Senator Steve Pallett |
In attendance | Katie Griffiths, Committee & Panel Officer Peter Lamy , Research and Project Officer |
Agenda matter | Action |
1. Records of Meetings The Panel approved the records of its meetings held on the 19th, 20th and 29th April 2022. |
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2. Legacy Report The Panel noted and discussed its Legacy Report. Following minor amendments the Panel approved the report pending a foreword to be provided by the Chair. It was agreed that the report should be published on 4 May 2022. |
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3. Items for Communication The Panel discussed its report S.R.9/2022: COVID-19 Response and Recovery Report: Co-Funded Payroll Scheme, agreeing that identification of media mentions of its publication, on 29 April 2022, would take place. The Panel agreed that additional communication of the report would take place alongside the publication of a summary digital report. The Panel agreed that social media communication on the main infographic highlights of its Legacy Report would take place following the report being published. . | KG |
4. Further Business The Panel agreed that no further action would be taken to review refinancing of pension liability as this had been suggested within the Legacy Report. The Panel agreed that review of the minutes of the Competent Authorities Ministers would not take place, noting the short amount of time remaining before the election period. The Panel agreed that it would electronically review minutes of the meeting. The Chair, noting that the meeting would be the last of the political term, thanked members for the time and effort in the work of scrutiny. The Panel thanked Officers for their support. | KG |