Jersey's Treasury Minister faces a vote of censure

Senator Philip Ozouf said he was surprised and disappointed to learn about the vote of censure

Jersey's Treasury Minister, Senator Philip Ozouf, faces a vote of censure.

Four Jersey politicians want Senator Ozouf to be called to account for his handling of a failed deal to buy a new police station.

A report by the Comptroller and Auditor General, Chris Swinson, catalogued accusations of harassment and bullying by Senator Ozouf.

Senator Ozouf said he was surprised and disappointed to learn about the vote of censure.

He has faced criticism and calls for his resignation over the failed deal to buy Lime Grove House in St Helier to be used as a new police headquarters.

'Not good enough'

The deal to buy the building for about £8m fell through when the owner decided to lease it to a finance company.

Now the Home Affairs department plans to build a new police headquarters on part of the Green Street car park.

The Chief Minister stood by Senator Ozouf saying his behaviour was caused by stress.

Deputy Roy Le Herissier believed excusing Senator Ozouf's behaviour because he was stressed was not a good enough reason not to hold him to account.

The vote of censure has been signed by Deputy Roy Le Herissier, Constable Dan Murphy, Senator Sarah Ferguson and Deputy John Le Fondre.

Last month, Senator Ozouf apologised for any mistakes he had made but denied bullying anyone.

The vote of censure is due to be debated in the States at the end of the month.