States of Jersey to debate bailiff's dual role

The States will debate whether the bailiff should keep his dual role

The States of Jersey is to again debate whether the bailiff should keep his dual role of speaker in the states and the island's chief judge.

Constable Andy Jehan has submitted a proposition, backed by 16 other deputies, for the positions to be separated in order to develop the island's democracy.

It calls for an elected official to be chosen to preside over the States instead.

The current bailiff, Sir Timothy Le Cocq, is due to retire in October next year.

The proposition will be debated during the States Assembly sitting beginning on 10 December.

It says multiple reviews over the last decades have concluded that it would be in the island’s best interests to introduce a separation of powers between the assembly and the court.

"We believe that the retirement of the current bailiff provides an opportunity for a seamless transition," it says.

It continues: "Establishing an elected speaker for the States Assembly will strengthen our democracy, ensure greater accountability and make our government system more efficient.

"We wish to place on record our sincere thanks to the bailiff for his service as president of the States of Jersey.

"He is warmly regarded by all states members because of the way he has carried out his duties, and this proposition is not a comment on his performance or that of any potential successor."