22 August 2011
The Minister for Treasury and Resources, Senator Philip Ozouf has issued the following statement about Lime Grove House:
"The opportunity to purchase Lime Grove House has been lost following a decision by the vendors of the property to enter into a long term lease arrangement with a private sector client from the financial services industry.
"We were disappointed to learn of this development. In negotiations of this kind there is always the possibility that vendors will complete transactions with another third party. It is also difficult for the States of Jersey since it cannot and should not compete with the international financial services sector in property matters.
"Discussions for the relocation of the States of Jersey Police have been ongoing for a significant period of time, for various reasons. This latest development is regrettable and disappointing. I have already been in communication with the Minister for Home Affairs and the Chief of Police, to tell them that I will do everything that I can to fast track a solution which will secure new police accommodation as quickly as possible while delivering the efficiency savings that have been identified.
"I am extremely grateful for the hard work of our staff throughout this challenging project and I would like to thank all those involved."
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