Guernsey baby death: Preferred health minister announced

Deputy Jonathan Le Tocq has nominated the current Public Services Minister Deputy Paul Luxon

Guernsey's chief minister has named his preferred candidate to be the next health minister in the States.

The entire health board resigned on Friday amid "deep concerns" over midwifery supervision following the death of a newborn baby.

Deputy Jonathan Le Tocq has nominated the current Public Services Minister Paul Luxon.

Despite it being his preferred candidate, States' members can nominate others for the role.

'Rebuild assurance'

The resignations came as the Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC) completed a review of midwifery supervision.

A wider review into all the Bailiwick's maternity services is due to follow.

Deputy Le Tocq said he respected Health Minister Mark Dorey and the board in their decision to resign.

He said: "Our overriding desire now must be to rebuild assurance at the highest level in the department and to provide the best opportunity for constructive leadership and reform."

He added that Deputy Luxon has the "leadership skills and acumen to deal with the current issues, refocus, renew morale and provide vision, surety and stability for the future".

Although they have announced their resignations, the board stays in post until their replacements are elected, which is expected to be at the next States meeting, commencing on 29 October.