Framework for developing the international identity of Jersey

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A decision made (20.04.07) to sign the recommended 'Framework for developing the international identity of Jersey'.

Subject:	International identity of Jersey
Decision Reference:	MD-C-2007-0028		Exempt clause(s):	No
Type of Report: (oral or written)	written		Person Giving Report (if oral):
Telephone or e-mail Meeting?			Report File ref:	Int 63/4
Written report – Title	Framework for developing the international identity of Jersey
Written report – Author (name and job title)	International relations
Decision(s): The Chief Minister is recommended to sign the attached ‘Framework for developing the international identity of Jersey’
Reason(s) for decision: In January 2006, the UK Secretary of State for Constitutional Affairs and the Chief Minister announced their intention to agree a framework for the development of Jersey’s international identity. Following detailed negotiations, the attached text has been agreed in principle between their respective officials, approved by the Constitutional Advisory Panel and endorsed by the Council of Ministers. The Secretary of State has indicated his agreement to sign the Framework. The Framework represents a significant advance in the development of Jersey’s international personality and explicitly sets out, for the first time, Jersey’s distinct international identity which is separate from the UK. The Chief Minister is charged, on behalf of the States of Jersey, with responsibility for the Island’s external relations and is authorised to sign the Framework agreement on behalf of the government of Jersey. It has been agreed with the Department for Constitutional Affairs that the Framework agreement shall be signed with effect from 1 May 2007.
Action required: N.B. Publication date to coincide with media release embargo · Two copies of the Framework agreement, signed by the Chief Minister with effect from 1 May 2007, to be sent to the DCA for signature by the Secretary of State. · Greffe to publish the MD on 1 May 2007. · Media release and attached Framework to be embargoed for publication on 1 May 2007.
Signature: Chief Minister		Date of Decision:

Framework for developing the international identity of Jersey

Following the statement of intent agreed on 11 January 2006 , the Chief Minister of Jersey and the UK Secretary of State for Constitutional Affairs have agreed the following principles. They establish a framework for the development of the international identity of Jersey . The framework is intended to clarify the constitutional relationship between the UK and Jersey , which works well and within which methods are evolving to help achieve the mutual interests of both the UK and Jersey .

1. The UK has no democratic accountability in and for Jersey which is governed by its own democratically elected assembly. In the context of the UK’s responsibility for Jersey’s international relations it is understood that -

· The UK will not act internationally on behalf of Jersey without prior consultation.

· The UK recognises that the interests of Jersey may differ from those of the UK, and the UK will seek to represent any differing interests when acting in an international capacity. This is particularly evident in respect of the relationship with the European Union where the UK interests can be expected to be those of an EU member state and the interests of Jersey can be expected to reflect the fact that the UK’s membership of the EU only extends to Jersey in certain circumstances as set out in Protocol 3 of the UK’s Treaty of Accession.

2. Jersey has an international identity which is different from that of the UK.

3. The UK recognises that Jersey is a long-standing, small democracy and supports the principle of Jersey further developing its international identity.

4. The UK has a role to play in assisting the development of Jersey’s international identity. The role is one of support not interference.

5. Jersey and the UK commit themselves to open, effective and meaningful dialogue with each other on any issue that may come to affect the constitutional relationship.

6. International identity is developed effectively through meeting international standards and obligations which are important components of Jersey’s international identity.

7. The UK will clearly identify its priorities for delivery of its international obligations and agreements so that these are understood, and can be taken into account, by Jersey in developing its own position.

8. The activities of the UK in the international arena need to have regard to Jersey’s international relations, policies and responsibilities.

9. The UK and Jersey will work together to resolve or clarify any differences which may arise between their respective interests.

10. Jersey and the UK will work jointly to promote the legitimate status of Jersey as a responsible, stable and mature democracy with its own broad policy interests and which is willing to engage positively with the international community across a wide range of issues.

Signed 1 May 2007

Secretary of State for Constitutional Affairs

Chief Minister, Jersey