Report finds need for competition in Guernsey

A new competition law could help solve problems with regulation in Guernsey, an independent review has found.

The UK's Regulatory Policy Institute concluded regulation was effective in telecoms, but not for post or electricity.

It said there was "more scope for competition" in the island "than is generally assumed".

The Office of Utility Regulation, which regulates the industries, welcomed the report and recommendations.

The report's authors also found a number of areas where they thought Guernsey could work closer with Jersey.

Office of Utility Regulation director general John Curran said: "The opportunity to have closer working with Jersey has moved on significantly in the past few months.

"The proposed implementation of a competition law in Guernsey would greatly advance the opportunities to further strengthen this arrangement."

He also backed the report's findings that although the current system does offer islanders value for money, there are a number of areas where it could be improved.

Mr Curran said: "With open dialogue and a willingness to engage, significant progress can be made on key issues facing these utility sectors in Guernsey."

The Commerce and Employment Department has asked for any islanders with a view on utility regulation to contact them before 24 December.

The department said it would then prepare a report, including recommendations, for the States to consider.