28 June 2016
External Relations Minister, Senator Philip Bailhache, and Assistant Chief Minister, Senator Philip Ozouf, spoke last night at a meeting of the Channel Islands All-Party Parliamentary Group (APPG).
The meeting was attended by UK Parliamentarians of all parties, as well as UK Justice Minister with responsibility for the Crown Dependencies, Lord Faulks.
Speaking after the meeting, Senator Bailhache said “The Channel Islands APPG is an important means by which we can engage with UK Parliamentarians, increasing understanding of our Island and any issues we face.
“This evening’s meeting was a timely opportunity, following the EU referendum, to re-assert the Government of Jersey’s long-held position that we are not seeking any change to the substance of our relationship with either the EU or the UK.
“We were grateful for the many offers of support from Parliamentarians to make sure Jersey’s position is recognised and taken into account by the UK Government.
“We were also pleased to hear once again from Lord Faulks of his determination to ensure that Jersey and the Channel Islands remain fully informed and included throughout the coming negotiation process.
“This echoed the welcome commitment by the Prime Minister to consult with the Crown Dependencies, made in his statement yesterday afternoon.
“Continued cooperation and close working with the United Kingdom will be absolutely vital as we seek to protect the interests of Jersey in the months and years ahead.”
Senator Ozouf later addressed Parliamentarians at a reception held in the Palace of Westminster, emphasising the close and mutually beneficial economic ties between Jersey and the UK.
Senator Ozouf said “Just as Jersey’s economy benefits from its close links to the United Kingdom, so the UK benefits – to the tune of around £9 billion – from its links with Jersey.
“Furthermore, at a time of some uncertainty, the significant amount of liquidity that Jersey provides to the UK becomes increasingly important.
“Together, Jersey and the UK are more than the sum of our parts.
“It is vital, in the negotiations to come, that we continue to work closely together to promote and protect our interests.”
gov.je