Guernsey by-election to cost fifth of general election

A by-election for a seat in Guernsey's government will cost a fifth of the cost of next year's general election.

The by-election in the St Peter Port North district in December follows the death of Deputy Martin Storey in July.

The Treasury and Resources Department said the cost of £51,100 for the by-election was "disproportionate" to the £250,000 cost of a general election.

It said it was "highly regrettable" electoral laws meant the "expenditure cannot apparently be avoided".

A general election is being held in April next year when the number of deputies is being reduced from 45 to 38.

Under the island's Reform Law candidates are allowed to claim up to £600 towards the cost of their campaign, which must not exceed £2,300 in total.

The States has been asked to approve 2 December as the date for the by-election.

It has also been asked to agree that only those on the new electoral roll in the electoral district of St Peter Port North will be able to vote.