Reply to JRA questions

1 [a] The reduction in the number of Senators was part of a number of reforms to enable a true general election to take place in October 2014. The proposed Electoral Commission may recommend that the remaining 10 Senators are retained or do away with the position altogether in favour of one States Member as per Clothier. I would favour four or five large constituencies rather than parochial seats.

2. I do not support government interfering in the recruitment or release of staff employed by private businesses. The income support benefit system is there to help individuals who have the required five years continuous residence and who are in need due to unemployment or low income.

3[a]Yes. I am particularly concerned that an estimated 11,000 people with housing qualifications, currently living in the UK or abroad, could return to live in Jersey at anytime. I believe that ultimately the only way to control immigration is to have a system of time-limited work permits similar to the system we currently have for visitors or workers from non EU countries.

4] Of the current declared candidates I would support Ian Gorst but until all the candidates are known it is difficult to say.

5] Yes. I have stated this on numerous occasions in the States and it is in my manifesto.

6] We need the income from GST, estimated to be £80m in 2012, to replace the lost income from the finance industry and companies as a result of the 0/10 regime. I think the underlying rate should be reduced as soon as our finances improve. I would support locally grown fruit, vegetables and local dairy products being exempted from GST.

7] [a] The problem with Ministerial government is that we end up with an exclusive rather than inclusive form of government. The next Chief Minister must embrace talents from all sides of the house. I do not believe the system is broke but I do think we need to reduce the number of States Members down to about 43.

8] The States have already approved the Residential Tenancies Law, although it has not yet come into force. The Health and Social Services Department is also drafting legislation relating to minimum standards in residential accommodation.

9] I definitely believe in career development but accept that from time to time the import of Managers with particular expertise can be beneficial. For example I understand the new Hospital Director has been r