"I have consistantly advocated transparent and open government".
TAX/GST
Since 2005 I have publicly predicted that GST would raise more than the £45Million predicted by the Treasury. The expected sum could now be as much as £51 Million. I recently supported the removal of GST on food as I feel that we should give much of the excess back to taxpayers. The vote was lost, but the GST on food issue will be back.
The States have declined to support a Vehicles Emissions duty on the basis that the Public are feeling financially disadvantaged by both GST and “20% means 20%”. I feel that the States should consider reducing income tax by a penny in the pound and raise the equivalent sum through environmental taxes such as vehicle emissions duty, thereby ensuring that environmental taxes are predominantly cost neutral. To burden the Public with more tax at the present time is a step too far.
POPULATION & INFRASTRUCTURE
The States of Jersey have agreed to a “managed” population growth, which will result in more people taking up residence in Jersey. This will put a strain on the infra structure of the island and we will undoubtedly have to invest more into our hospital, roads, drains and Public Services. We will probably have to consider a total redesign of our hospital facilities, and major funding would be required if we needed to build a new hospital.
STATES SPENDING
It is always a difficult balancing act to curb States spending yet provide valuable services to the Public delivered in a professional and productive manner. We need to ensure that departments spend their budgets wisely without wasting funds. I would advocate regular department reviews to ensure effective service delivery.
INCINERATOR & WASTE RECYCLING
I campaigned against the £105 Million pound incinerator, arguing that we could commission a smaller incinerator combined with a much higher waste recycling rate than that suggested by Transport & Technical Services (TTS). This would have saved Millions of Pounds for the island, but TTS have insisted on following a flawed policy. The rest of Europe is aiming for recycling rates in excess of 50% and TTS have failed to adopt an ambitious recycling rate.
Harmful materials are being put into the Bellozanne incinerator and I have campaigned for these to be removed from the waste stream by asking questions in the States and suggesting that TTS should be accountable for their improper practices.
YOUTH & EDUCATION
I recently supported the reduction in the voting age, which means that many young people are now able to vote for the first time, and I understand that many are looking forward to the 2008 elections.
As chairman of St Brelade Youth Club I fully appreciate the good work being done by our Youth Service, but note that funds are limited. I gained support for additional funds from the Parish of St Brelade for our youth club, and suggest that more Parishes increase their commitment to their youth facilities.
I supported additional funding to early years provision as it is proven that this can make a big difference to a child’s development.
STATES REFORM
I believe that we should attempt to have a General Election and that the number of States Members should be reduced. Unfortunately there are many in the States that resist change.
SOCIAL SECURITY
As Assistant Minister at Social Security I have been directly involved in the introduction of Income Support which has revolutionised our benefit system. I personally championed the introduction of the carer’s allowance, which has helped many on lower incomes caring for others, and thousands of islanders are receiving vital support in protecting welfare of the family unit. In addition Employment legislation has been introduced protecting worker’s interests.
With a larger elderly population forecast, a high priority for the future is to introduce an insurance scheme or similar to ensure the right for all to funding of their residential care costs, thereby ensuring that their home does not have to be sold.
Many pensioners find it difficult to cope financially and we must remain committed to ensuring that their standard of living is improved.
The States recently approved additional funds for those with special needs, and I am committed to ensuring that the funds are used in the most efficient way to achieve the best outcomes for these valued members of our society.
FINANCE INDUSTRY
The recent support of the US administration for their damaged mortgage market gives encouragement for the future of the world economy. Jersey Finance is well positioned for future growth as its business is predominantly in areas unaffected by the US market.
TOURISM
I am reliably informed by contacts in the hotel industry that visitor numbers are actually down, but due to increased local travel originating from Jersey, inward arrivals of Jersey residents give a false impression of visitor numbers. This needs to be addressed so that we can accurately measure tourist arrivals that originate from outside of Jersey and return to UK or European destinations.
AGRICULTURE
The days of agricultural subsidies are long gone, but should we accept the closure of our tomato growers without putting up a fight to save the “Jersey Tomato”. We need to look again at how we can preserve an important brand before it completely disappears.
LAW & ORDER
I am concerned that in recent years the number of Community Police Officers has fallen dramatically and this needs to be rectified at the earliest opportunity. We also need more Police Officers on the beat especially in Town on Friday & Saturday nights.
The decision to axe the Police Motor Cycle Unit was an error that should be put right by the new Council of Ministers, and I will fight for funds for these initiatives.
HOUSING
I have supported the introduction of a shared equity scheme and pleased that it is now being introduced.
Many young people can’t afford homes and only when supply meets demand will prices fall.
WATERFRONT
I am concerned that the Waterfront development will produce unexciting architecture and buildings of “boxy” design. The impact of buildings needs to be carefully considered by the Planning Minister. As businesses move to the Esplanade, town premises can be converted to housing that is much needed by young couples.
