Guernsey residents to give views on housing laws

People in Guernsey have been urged to give their opinion on laws controlling who can live and work in the island.

It comes as a new report sets out ways to manage the size of the island's population.

Currently, anyone from outside Guernsey wanting to live and work must obtain a housing licence, or make use of higher-priced Open Market housing.

The report will be considered by States members at the end of June, ahead of framing of new legislation.

The report, "The guiding principles for the development of a population regime", makes 45 recommendations.

'New regime'

It recommends, for example, keeping the Open Market laws largely in their current form.

The size and make up of Guernsey's population, including length of time needed to live in the island to become a permanent resident and whether new arrivals should have their criminal convictions checked, is also considered.

Guernsey's Chief Minister, Deputy Peter Harwood said: "The States is now moving towards the next phase of this process and will be asked at the end of June to sign up to 45 recommendations.

"These will form the starting point for new legislation and the introduction of a new regime which will replace the existing housing laws."

Mr Harwood said a presentation to explain the report would be held at the Beau Sejour theatre on Monday 3 June at 19:00 BST and would include time for questions.