Farnham sets out 'ambitious' vision for island

BBC

The politician set to remain as Jersey's chief minister has pledged to help tackle the cost of living, encourage more investment and continue increasing housing supply.

Lyndon Farnham's candidature is unopposed and the senator will share his vision statement for the role later at the first meeting of the newly elected States Assembly following the island's general election on 7 June.

In his statement, Farnham said he wanted Jersey to be a place where people can "afford to live well" with housing "within reach of more islanders" and the government managing finances responsibly.

He added: "Above all, I want Jersey to be a confident island that looks forward with optimism and ambition."

'Outward looking'

Farnham does not believe in austerity but expected the government to show "the same financial responsibility that households and businesses exercise every day".

He also pledged it would continue cutting "unnecessary reliance" on consultants.

Farnham wants to boost Jersey's appetite for growth and create opportunities in areas including digital technology, sustainable energy and other "high-value" industries as well as supporting the finance sector.

Farnham, who has been Chief Minister since 2024, added the successful delivery of the new hospital would be one of the "defining responsibilities" of the government and it must be "delivered on time, properly governed and financially controlled".

He said the government must respond to the demands of an ageing population and a falling birth rate.

Farnham added the government should also strengthen Jersey's ability to compete internationally.

"We should be outward-facing, ambitious and ready to seize opportunities wherever they arise," Farnham said.

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The States Greffe confirmed as there are no other candidates, States Assembly members will not be asked to cast votes on Farnham's nomination.

He will not officially take up his position until all ministers have been appointed at the States meeting on 29 June.

Farnham must give the States Greffe a list of his nominations for the ministerial positions by 26 June and other nominations can be made by other States members.

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