Income from Sale of Passports

Information about the publication of Ministerial Decisions

A formal published “Ministerial Decision” is required as a record of the decision of a Minister (or an Assistant Minister where they have delegated authority) as they exercise their responsibilities and powers.

Ministers are elected by the States Assembly and have legal responsibilities and powers as “corporation sole” under the States of Jersey Law 2005 by virtue of their office and in their areas of responsibility, including entering into agreements, and under any legislation conferring on them powers.

An accurate record of “Ministerial Decisions” is vital to effective governance, including:

demonstrating that good governance, and clear lines of accountability and authority, are in place around decisions-making – including the reasons and basis on which a decision is made, and the action required to implement a decision
providing a record of decisions and actions that will be available for examination by States Members, and Panels and Committees of the States Assembly; the public, organisations, and the media; and as a historical record and point of reference for the conduct of public affairs

Ministers are individually accountable to the States Assembly, including for the actions of the departments and agencies which discharge their responsibilities.

The Freedom of Information Law (Jersey) Law 2011 is used as a guide when determining what information is be published. While there is a presumption toward publication to support of transparency and accountability, detailed information may not be published if, for example, it would constitute a breach of data protection, or disclosure would prejudice commercial interest.

A decision made (10/04/06) regarding Home Affairs - Use of Additional Income from Sale of Passports.

Subject:	Home Affairs – Use of Additional Income from Sale of Passports
Decision Reference:		Exempt clause(s):		n/a
Type of Report: (oral or written)	Written	Person Giving Report (if oral):		n/a
Telephone or e-mail Meeting?	n/a	Report File ref:		JS/1/10/04/06
Written Report – Title	Income from Sale of Passports	Written report - author		Jane Strecker
Decision(s): The Minister approves: that the Home Affairs Department may use the additional income of £60,000, from the increase in passport fees in 2006, to supplement the shortfall in the Customs and Immigration manpower budget. That all future non-contentious increases that require approval are delegated to the Treasurer of the States.
Reason(s) for decision The Department has advised that it is currently reviewing options to make up the shortfall in unfunded manpower costs. The additional fee income will contribute to providing a future source of income on a recurring basis.
Action required: Inform the Home Affairs Department of the Decision.
Signature: (Minister/ Assistant Minister)			Date of Decision: 10th April 2006