Q. Do you support the tourism industry, if so how do you show that support?
A. I am very keen on event-led tourism for arts, sports, heritage, environment, culture which provide a reason for people to visit Jersey. Look at the success of Branchage festival and Jersey live. When the harbour gallery in St Aubins was threatened with closure I worked to enable this facility to remain open. I was chairman of the Jersey Arts Centre and responsible for many events and festivals. States support is needed
Q.What is your opinion of the importance of the financial services industry and what will you do to sustain and develop the industry?
A. I have worked in the industry; it is hugely important and generates £1.5 Billion annually, 42% of GVA. The industry has had to diversify following changes in public attitudes following the crash, and comply with new regulatory legislation introduced from international pressure and tax information agreements. Parts of the industry is doing well i.e Trust Companies; Banks less so while we have with half percent interest rates. Back office jobs have gone due to high costs. Worrying signs are the 3 % fall in last years earnings and the new league table which puts Jersey lower down the table. I am going to find out why and what needs to be done. The industry must be allowed to bring in expertise which we don’t have locally
Q. What can be done to stop companies employing people who come off the boat instead of local people?
A. We have to enhance social security work schemes and develop education to provide local skills. I brought an amendment to the budget to get funding for a work scheme for back to work people to maintain coastal paths which has been running for two years and very successful.
Q. After the news that 70% of students in the UK have their loans cancelled, is the system of university top up fees fair and what are local implications?
A. The system is not fair , in Scotland there are no fees , in England student loans , in Jersey means tested grants for tuition fees and maintenance. The high cost is not sustainable. Universities have to become more efficient and reduce costs or it is inevitable that some talented young people will not be able to access universities. We should develop an arrangement with a UK university to provide access to degree courses in Jersey to reduce the costs.
Q. Are you going to put a cap on immigration and control immigration into the Island?
A. We can’t put a cap on immigration without reaching agreement via the UK with the EU on free access of people. If we were to do so it would prevent local people from living and working in the UK and the EU. This may change if the UK leaves the EU .We can manage and influence the level of immigration to hold to the target of 325 people per year and use employers permits to set limits. In the long run we have to improve local skills through education.
Q. Are any candidates in the no camp for the automatic seat in the States for Constables?
A. The public will decide by referendum . I don’t wear a yes or no badge and have not been active in campaigns. Personally I am a no. I consider the constable to be an essential but different job and prefer separate elections for constables and once elected, constables should have the option or not of standing for election to the States. I will accept the referendum result what ever way it goes
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