Channel Islands future to be examined at Jersey conference

Tuesday 27 July 2010

A group of leading constitutional thinkers will be travelling to Jersey in September to examine the question of the Channel Islands’ future independence at a conference organised by the Jersey and Guernsey Law Review.

This is a unique opportunity to hear from an exceptional group of participants who are prepared to share their expertise and experience, and to debate the future with an audience of interested Channel Islanders.

The Rt. Hon Lord Falconer, PC QC, The Rt Hon Lord Hoffmann, PC, HSH Prince Nikolaus of Lichtenstein and Sir David Simmons, former Chief Justice of Barbados, are among the group of 16 experts assessing the island’s constitutional position and examining future options at the conference entitled ‘Dependency or Sovereignty? Time to take stock’.

The day-long event, which is sponsored by Appleby and KPMG, will be broken into four sessions each of which is designed to provide insight into the realities of independence, including the experiences of other small states.

Sir Philip Bailhache, Editor of the Jersey and Guernsey Law Review believes it is important we don’t delay examining the issue of independence. “To have such an exceptional group of participants really does show that people are interested in the international position of the Channel Islands. I’m extremely grateful that they have all taken the time to travel here and help us examine the islands’ future.

“However, the aim of the conference is not to promote independence for the Channel Islands but to examine many of the issues surrounding this question,” said Sir Philip. “By doing so, we will be better prepared and less likely to have to rush decisions on these important issues at a later stage. There may be middle ground between the status quo and independence.

“The constitutional position of the Channel Islands is relevant because it is increasingly important that our international interests are protected, and that can place the UK in a difficult position if its own interests are in conflict with ours. We may find that the current position ceases to work in the interests of the Channel Islands and we will then have to look at other options in earnest.’

‘Dependency or Sovereignty? Time to take stock’ will be held at the Hotel de France on Friday 17th September 2010. Anyone interested in attending should call 01534 615886 or email carl.methven@businesslife.je to reserve their seats.