29 July 2016
The Prime Minister, the Rt. Hon Theresa May MP, has given assurances that the Island will be engaged in the process of the UK's negotiation with the EU in relation to its exit.
The Prime Minister has written to the Chief Minister, Senator Ian Gorst, as well as the other Crown Dependencies to confirm that the UK Government takes its responsibilities towards the Crown Dependencies very seriously.
The letter refers to the 'valued, historical and special' relationship between the United Kingdom and the Crown Dependencies and the Prime Minister notes Jersey's interest in the continuation, as far as is possible, of current arrangements.
An opportunity to contribute
In the letter the Prime Minister said it is right that the Crown Dependencies are kept informed and offered the opportunity to contribute and undertakes to ensure that Jersey’s interests are taken properly into account. The Prime Minister goes on to note the ongoing dialogue at Ministerial and official level across a range of issues.
Chief Minister Ian Gorst said: "I am very pleased to receive this assurance from the UK Prime Minister, which acknowledges Jersey’s constitutional relationship with the UK and confirms that our interests will be taken properly into account. It is important that we have the opportunity to contribute to negotiations, and I appreciate the Prime Minister writing to confirm that we will be able to engage and be offered the opportunity to contribute on issues that are important to Jersey.
“As the Prime Minister’s letter makes clear, communication and cooperation will be essential in moving forward and I look forward to continuing our positive working relationship in the months that lie ahead. The Government of Jersey will continue to act in the best interests of the Island and this letter makes clear that our interests will be taken into account in the UK’s negotiations with the EU.”
Download the UK Prime Minister's letter (size 371KB)
gov.je