Parkinson pulls out of P&R President race

Deputy Charles Parkinson had said he would run as the anti-GST candidate but has now withdrawn

One of the contenders to become the next president of the Policy and Resources Committee has pulled out of the race.

Deputy Charles Parkinson said he will instead back election poll-topper Deputy Lindsay de Sausmarez for the role.

"I am pleased to be supporting Lindsay for chief minister, and believe she can bring the new assembly together."

Deputies Jonathan Le Tocq and Mark Helyar have both said they will stand for the role at the election on 1 July.

After he declared he would not contest the position, Parkinson said: "I hope to gain a seat on the Policy and Resources Committee to assist with the review of tax policy which must now take place."

In the last term Guernsey's States agreed to introduce a 5% GST, a lower rate of income tax for earnings under £30,000 and reform social security contributions.

Parkinson wants to ensure the island's corporate tax regime is reformed before GST is introduced.

He attempted twice in the last term to change the island's corporate tax regime, where currently most companies pay no tax, while big firms pay 10% tax on their profits.

Earlier this week, business group GIBA criticised plans to reform the island's corporate tax structure.

Forward Guernsey leader Deputy Gavin St Pier has already said he will not stand for the position, but would like to serve on P&R, potentially as treasury lead.