March 19, 2021
On 17 March 2021, Jersey’s Minister for External Relations, Senator Ian Gorst, met with Nickie Aiken, Conservative MP for Cities of London and Westminster. The meeting provided a valuable discussion as part of the Government of Jersey’s programme of engagement with UK Parliamentarians.
The meeting opened with a discussion on the impact of Brexit upon Jersey. Senator Gorst provided an outline of Jersey’s relationship with the EU during the UK’s former membership, which had been governed by Protocol 3 to the UK’s 1972/73 Treaty of Accession. He affirmed that Jersey had confirmed its participation in the EU-UK Trade and Cooperation Agreement (TCA), allowing the Island to secure tariff-free trade for goods, and maintain the position as a third country for trade in services.
Senator Gorst explained that some of the biggest challenges for Jersey lie with the impact of the agreement on the Island’s fishing industry, given that the EU-UK TCA supersedes the Granville Bay Agreement. He noted that the Government of Jersey remains in close dialogue with UK and French counterparts to ensure that fair and efficient landing, export, and licensing arrangements are in place for all parties.
The discussion also considered Jersey’s response to the Covid-19 pandemic. Senator Gorst highlighted the positive progress made by Jersey on the roll-out of vaccines, which is keeping pace with that of the UK. He also underlined the Island’s success in suppressing the number of active cases, supported by an effective test and trace regime. Senator Gorst expressed hope for a fuller reopening of travel to Jersey in the summer, noting that any decision will be guided by the latest scientific advice.
Senator Gorst asked about the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic on financial services industries based in Nickie’s inner-city constituency. Nickie outlined that industry remains divided over the impact of Brexit, particularly in relation to the future of the regulatory environment of the UK and the EU, and the possible effects on London as a financial hub.
The meeting also covered other areas of mutual interest, including Jersey’s participation in the UK’s non-EU trade agreements. Senator Gorst highlighted the UK Government’s responsibility to consider the full ambit of Jersey’s interests with respect to these negotiations. Senator Gorst also welcomed the UK Government’s recent publication of the Integrated Review and its pragmatic global agenda, over which Jersey will seek to cooperate as appropriate.
The Government of Jersey will continue to work closely with Nickie Aiken MP, alongside other UK Parliamentarians across the political spectrum, to ensure the Island’s ongoing policies and interests continue to be recognised and addressed in Westminster.
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