Government of Jersey

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

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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While there is a presumption toward publication to support of transparency and accountability, detailed information may not be published if, for example, it would constitute a breach of data protection, or disclosure would prejudice commercial interest.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 (04/12/2006) regarding UN Framework Convention on Climate Change - Ratification of the Kyoto Protocol.

Subject:	UN Framework Convention on Climate Change - Ratification of the Kyoto Protocol
Decision Reference:	MD-C-2006-0054		Exempt clause(s):	–
Type of Report: (oral or written)	Written		Person Giving Report (if oral):
Telephone or e-mail Meeting?			Report File ref:	Int. C 51
Written report – Title	Jersey’s ratification of the Kyoto Convention
Written report – Author (name and job title)	Sarah Le Claire, Policy Manager Planning and Environment Department
Decision(s): To request through official channels that the UK government should extend to Jersey its ratification of the Kyoto Protocol.
Reason(s) for decision: The Kyoto Protocol is an international agreement setting targets for industrialised countries to cut their greenhouse gas emissions, which are considered at least partly responsible for global warming. Industrialised countries have committed to cut their combined emissions to 5% below 1990 levels by 2008 - 2012. The United Kingdom ratified the Protocol on 31 May 2002, and it entered into force on 16 February 2006. The UK has asked Jersey to consider whether it wishes ratification to be extended to the Bailiwick, which was reiterated in a letter from the Department for Constitutional Affairs of 18 September 2006. Having carefully considered the practical requirements, resources and legal implications of ratification, it is concluded that Jersey is now able to fulfil the obligations of the Protocol and is in a position to request the Protocol is extended to Jersey. By doing so, Jersey will demonstrate the Island’s commitment to tackling the global issue of climate change, support the UK government in a drive to secure wide international commitment to the Protocol, and make significant progress towards achieving the States strategic objectives relating to the environment. This proposal is in accordance with the strategic policy of the States and has been endorsed by a decision of the Minister for Planning and Environment on 12 April 2006 (copy of that Department’s report is attached).
Action required: Copy to Greffe of Chief Minister’s decision and accompanying report. International Relations to draft official letter to request the UK to extend ratification of Kyoto Protocol to Jersey.
Signature: Chief Minister		Date of Decision: 4 December 2006