States could debate Ukraine crisis

Wednesday 16 March 2022

Deputies may soon have the chance to debate the war in Ukraine and its potential implications for the Bailiwick.

The States' senior committee, Policy & Resources, is considering submitting a Policy Letter to the States' Assembly which would trigger a debate in which deputies could put their views on the public record.

Express understands that the Committee may seek the permission of the States' Presiding Officer - the Bailiff - to allow a debate to take place as an unscheduled item at their next meeting on 30 March.

If the Committee goes ahead with a Policy Letter, its proposals are unlikely to be substantial or controversial.

It is thought that the main purpose would be to allow a debate in the island's parliament rather than because any firm decisions need to be made. But there could also be a vote recorded to support Ukraine and condemn Russia's invasion of its neighbour. 

Pictured: Express understands that the Policy & Resources Committee is considering leading a States' debate on the crisis in Ukraine. 

The need for such a debate is dividing opinion among deputies. 

Yesterday, one deputy told Express that it was "important for the States' Assembly to have a public discussion about the greatest humanitarian and political crisis in Europe in decades", but another deputy said a debate without a meaningful outcome would be "self indulgent and superfluous".

The States held a not dissimilar debate - without taking any substantial votes - on Brexit.

But traditionally the States have been reluctant to express views on international matters which do not directly concern the Bailiwick, partly because of the UK Government's responsibilities for the islands in the area of foreign affairs.

The most recent States' meeting was over in one day. At their next meeting, the States have two potentially substantial items to debate: proposals to set up a development agency to run large parts of the island's east coast and a recommendation to introduce simultaneous electronic voting in the Assembly. 

@Govgg @letocq is Guernsey imminently announcing something similar for local residents to log interest? Will government be providing financial assistance like UK? How many might be admitted by such a route?

Even a holding media statement would be welcomed by many islanders… https://t.co/7isuY6hNsY

— Gavin St Pier ???????? (@gavinstpier) March 15, 2022

Meanwhile, the former President of the Policy & Resources Committee, Deputy Gavin St. Pier, continues to urge his successors to do more to promote the island's willingness to welcome refugees fleeing the war in Eastern Europe. 

The Committee has so far maintained its position that the Bailiwick can operate only within the limited scheme for refugees developed by the UK Government.

Pictured: Some public buildings have recently flown the flag of Ukraine or been illuminated in its colours. This is an image of St. Martin's Parish Hall last night. Credit: Dave Beausire.