Politicians back focus on cost of living

Politicians have backed the Government of Jersey's key priorities for the next political term which includes action on the cost of living.

States members adopted the Common Strategic Policy which lays out the Council of Ministers' priorities for the political term until 2030.

The priorities are centered around four pillars including targeted action on the cost of living, restoring Jersey's competitiveness, investing in homes and infrastructure and maintaining financial stability.

Chief Minister Lyndon Farnham said the government was determined "to make Jersey a more affordable place to live" but Reform Jersey co-leader Lyndsay Feltham said the policy lacked "real action".

The policy was backed with 31 votes in favour, 10 against and two abstentions.

Ministers first published the proposed policy in September and this week politicians debated a number of amendments proposed by backbenchers.

This included adding a priority about government transparency and promoting democracy, bringing the total number of priorities up from 11 to 12.

Deputy Feltham's amendments to add actions to the policy about household affordability and employment rights were rejected and members also voted not to include reference to rental stress.

The Reform Jersey co-leader said she was worried about the gaps this left behind.

"What I really wanted to see from government was something more sustained and a sustained commitment to reduce everyday cost of living," said Feltham.

"They've committed to a review of household affordability. A review doesn't put food on the table or a roof over somebody's head.

"I am really concerned that ministers aren't going to actually take any action."

However, the chief minister said the policy recognised islanders' concerns such as affordability, housing, economic growth, investing in infrastructure and protecting the environment.

In his closing speech, Farnham said their contributions "reflected a shared commitment to securing the best possible future for our island".

He said the policy "will send an important message to islanders that we are putting their interests before our political disagreements".

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