Insights from our President, Adam Budworth, August 2024

As anticipated, we move further into summer with a new Government and Prime Minister after Labour secured over 400 seats in the House of Commons in a landslide victory on 4 July.  The Conservative party endured their worse election outcome in history.   In the spirit of collaboration, our Chief Minister has looked forward with optimism at forging and maintaining a ‘close and productive working relationship’ with the new government.    The new UK leaders must provide some certainty in a relatively short timescale following the commitments made in their manifesto around the health service, cost of living and clarity on their intentions relating to taxing individuals and companies.

I look back on my first Chamber Lunch speech as President in September 2022 when the topic was “is there a housing crisis?”.

Deputy Sam Mezec addressed our Chamber lunch last month and mentioned the ‘existential threat’ the continuing housing crisis poses to Jersey’s future prosperity and social cohesion.  He referred to three pillars in supporting more islanders into home ownership, improving the experience of renters and addressing homelessness in Jersey.  We look forward to working collaboratively with the Housing Minister to achieve a more level playing field in terms of suitable accommodation.

At the time of writing, we are just days’ away from the Royal visit.   Both Islands are eagerly anticipating the arrival of Their Majesties King Charles III and Queen Camilla.   We have no doubt that our ever-present sense of community and pride in our jurisdictions will be clear for all to see on 15 and 16 July. 

The visit is a reflection of the ancient and very personal relationship which has existed between Jersey, as one of the Crown’s oldest possessions, and the Monarch which stretches back eight centuries.

The schedule includes special sittings of the States Assembly and Royal Court, community tea party in Liberation Square featuring a cross-section of Islanders, a presentation of the King’s Colour to Jersey Sea Cadets, a parade in front of the Pomme D’Or Hotel as well as opportunities for many of our skilled craftspeople to demonstrate their talents.  The first chance to see the King and Queen will be at People’s Park for seven rounds of a 21-gun salute from members of the 1781 Militia.

This landmark event in our Islands’ calendar will create many precious memories for our all.