Jersey Police Authority chair appointed

The Minister for Home Affairs has appointed Advocate Jonathan White as the first chair of the Jersey Police Authority (JPA), the independent body responsible for ensuring the States of Jersey Police is an efficient and effective police force.

 

Advocate White, who is an English solicitor and a Jersey advocate, will be responsible for the oversight of the States of Jersey Police and ensuring they deliver their key aims and objectives. This will be done in consultation with the Minister for Home Affairs, the chief of Jersey Police and the members of the JPA.

 

Advocate White is a former managing partner and group chairman of Ogier. During his time at the firm, Ogier grew from a law firm into an international fiduciary services business with a presence in nine jurisdictions and a staff of 850 people. He retired in 2009. He currently chairs both Jersey Finance Ltd and Durrell Wildlife Conservation Trust.  In 2011, he was awarded a lifetime achievement award from the Citywealth Magic Circle awards.

 

Minister for Home Affairs, Senator Ian Le Marquand, said “I am delighted that Jonathan is taking up this important post for the Island. He has a wealth of experience to bring to the role, not least his professional expertise as a senior lawyer, his contribution to public life through other organisations, and of course as a family man.

 

 

“I know that Jonathan is very keen to form a police authority which is representative of our community and takes into account the views of young people and those from different cultural backgrounds. He also sees a positive relationship with the States of Jersey Police as beneficial in ensuring that the Jersey Police Authority adds value from the public’s perspective.

 

“I wish Jonathan every success in leading the Jersey Police Authority and playing a part in ensuring that the States of Jersey Police Force continues to be an efficient and effective police force.”

 

Speaking about his appointment to the four-year post, Advocate Jonathan White said "I am delighted to have been offered this position. I know how hard the Police have been working to align themselves more closely with the community and the Police Authority is an important part of that initiative."

 

The members of the JPA are still to be elected. They will comprise of up to six people, with no more than two being States Members. The States Assembly will elect their two representatives by secret ballot in September. The remaining four posts will be advertised later that month.