Guernsey and Jersey to share data commissioner

Guernsey and Jersey will share a data protection commissioner in the future, after a vote in the States of Guernsey.

Deputies agreed to merge the two posts and for Jersey's commissioner Emma Martins to oversee both islands.

It comes as Guernsey's current data protection commissioner, Dr Peter Harris, retires on 30 September after 10 years in the role.

Jersey States has already approved the proposals, which are expected to save money and improve services.

Saving are expected to come in the areas of salary, IT support, publicity and education material and international travel and liaison.

Guernsey's current expenditure, £154,000 in 2010, is expected to be initially cut by 30% and reduce to £130,000 by 2015.