In fulfilment of that mission:

• We support prudence with our finances, the avoidance of waste, and making Jersey’s government more efficient, open, and responsive.
• We support policy decisions that allow for a thriving business community and sustainable economic growth.
• We support policies that prevent uncontrolled immigration.
• We seek decent and affordable housing.
• We will protect the environment for the benefit of Islanders.
• We will protect the vulnerable in our community and encourage people to work and make the most of their talents.
• We encourage innovation and creativity.
• We encourage people to embrace lifelong learning.
• We will respect the rights and freedoms of individuals.

Advance Jersey Sir Philip Bailhache speech on 24 September 2025

Ladies and gentlemen – good evening from me too and thank you for coming. Malcolm has articulated very clearly some of the challenges facing the Island in 2026. The age of party politics, for better or for worse, has arrived. And it is up to us to shape party politics in the best interests of the Island. That means creating a system which builds upon the consensus politics of the past but acknowledges that there are different paths to prosperity. People have the right to choose between alternative visions – but to have that choice, the visions must be clearly articulated. Parties are the best way to do that. But just one party is not the way!
Jersey’s socialist party put up14 candidates for election in 2022 and 10 were elected. We need to match that figure if we are to have a chance of influencing the government in 2026. And why not? Most Jersey people do not, I believe, embrace socialist principles. We have strong feelings of social responsibility – there are more charitable organisations doing good works in Jersey than in most other places – and we look after the vulnerable and those who genuinely need help. But we are also self-reliant. We believe that people should take responsibility for themselves. We don’t think that public money should be wasted; we approve of economic prudence. We want progress and change but not at any price.
The Residential Tenancy law debate was an interesting recent example of this clash of philosophies. The outcome was the wrong result because no evidence was produced to justify the substantial changes which are now to be introduced. The basis of the Minister’s case for rent controls was that the changes would improve the situation for tenants. But the economic impact assessment by the Government’s own economic advisers stated that the lack of data made it impossible to say whether there would be any benefit to Jersey’s economy. The Minister failed to mention this assessment which, scandalously, was not circulated to members until the debate on the principles was over. The debate was an example of the Reform Jersey’s insistence that tenants were underdogs who would benefit from the changes, while providing no evidence to justify those assertions. The Minister said he wanted to ensure that Islanders had access to affordable homes, as do we all, but sadly these changes may have exactly the opposite effect. Controlling rents and making it more difficult for landlords to reclaim possession of their properties may chase landlords out of the market, as has happened in Scotland and Ireland where similar regulation has been introduced. If fewer rental properties are available, that will increase market rents, not reduce them, and cause more stress to tenants.
What does Reform stand for? I looked on the Internet. Here’s what their leader said. “Wages are stagnant, we have a housing crisis, our young people struggle to get on the housing ladder … We will freeze immigration, stop the boats …” Oh, I’m sorry. That’s Reform UK. How confusing. Perhaps Reform Jersey should change their name too. But we can get some idea of Reform ’s policies from the manifesto of 2022. They want to replace the Bailiff with an elected speaker. An idea which may look theoretically sensible, but the Bailiff’s role is part of the Islands’ tradition and most important of all it works. Having a seasoned lawyer presiding ensures that independent and impartial decisions are made by the presiding officer. No one complains that decisions are politically biassed. And they want the Constables out of the States too. Advance Jersey favours neither of those policies.
Reform is not concerned about over-spending. Prudence is certainly not one of their watchwords. The 2022 manifesto states that they are in favour of an Equality and Human Rights Commission and a Public Services Ombudsman. We already have a Complaints Panel which operates for virtually nothing but each commission of this kind costs a lot of money. The Children’s Commissioner costs taxpayers more than a million pounds a year. An Equality Commission would cost at least as much, and an Ombudsman is estimated to cost £1.4 million from the start. And the money will come from increases in taxation. Anyway, enough about the opposition.
What does our party believe in? I would start with our values – truth and transparency, accountability and responsibility, and fairness and tolerance. Truthfulness is vital. Transparency requires that you confront the arguments which do not support you. You do not fail to disclose an independent report on the economic effects of your housing policies just because they are inconveniently against you. The States have agreed to take money from the Social Security Fund to support the Living wage but the full accounts of the Fund and its investment portfolio are not available. Fairness requires that you make proportionate and balanced decisions– and tolerance means listening to the arguments on the other side even if you disagree with them. That’s the essence of democracy.
Advance Jersey is a party of financial prudence – an old-fashioned word but it means that you act cautiously and do not spend more than you earn. Acting imprudently is the way to disaster. Every individual knows that, but this government apparently does not. It has been spending more than it earns for several years. It hasn’t properly balanced the books since the pandemic. How does it make ends meet? It borrows. It takes money that ought to go into the Social Security Fund which supports the payment of pensions and other benefits. Borrowing is not something that Jersey has done until quite recently. Some may say that everyone borrows – but you only borrow in private life when you know how you are going to repay. Governments should be no different. And the public service has mushroomed in recent years. The Chief Minister announced a freeze on recruitment in August 2024 but recent figures from the Statistics Department show that despite that freeze the number of F/T employees actually rose between June 2024 and June 2025 from 7852 to 8156, an increase of 304, nearly 4%. Between December 2019 and December 2024 public sector jobs grew by 1750, an increase of 21.5%. This is a staggering number of extra people employed by the Government. It is not surprising that we find it difficult to pay for them. Advance Jersey thinks that serious efforts should be made to reduce the headcount – it need not be by savage cuts but reductions there must be. That is financial prudence.
It may be controversial but we do not believe that GST should be removed from food because it’s not economically sensible. There is an allowance available for those at the bottom of the economic scale which greatly exceeds the GST that people pay on food. Richer people would benefit most from the exemption of food from GST because they buy more expensive foodstuffs. Where is the sense in that? And the consequence of exempting food would be that the general rate of GST would have to go up to about 7% to make up for the lost revenue.
Health expenditure is another serious concern. We are living longer – that is good news, but it means that more people will need medical help at the end of their lives. We have seen the financial consequences in the figures. Jersey topped the league of OECD countries in 2022 in terms of health expenditure as a percentage of total expenditure. I suspect that we are now off the charts. In 2026 we are going to spend £381 million on health – 31% of government expenditure (it was 28% in 2025). In Switzerland it is about 8%. The Chief Executive of Health warned more than a year ago that if we continued in this vein, all government expenditure would soon be absorbed by Health. That is obviously not sustainable. I admire the Minister of Health as someone who gets things done, but the Government is not thinking enough as to how health spending is going to be paid for in future. We risk following the NHS down the plughole. I’m afraid that a system of free hospital treatment for all is not sustainable. Those who can afford it are going to have to pay something towards the cost. This could be by some system of insurance, as we have with primary care (where the Health Insurance Fund subsidises consulting a GP). That’s the way it’s done in most European countries, but it could be in some other way. This problem needs urgently to be researched. But I see no evidence of that. We need some policy options and to make a decision – quickly.
The Chief Minister claims that the Budget stands for stability but I’m afraid I don’t see much stability in prospect. The CM may be influenced too much by his left-wing partners in government. The Budget is underpinned by taking nearly £50 million every years for 4 years from the grant to the Social Security Fund. Nearly a quarter of a billion pounds is coming from a Fund which supports the payment of pensions and benefits for our children and grandchildren. It’s also underpinned by borrowing, with not much clarity about how the money is going to be repaid except that we rely upon the Strategic Reserve. The trouble with plundering reserves is that they eventually run out. That’s not a recipe for stability.
I hope that I have given some flavour of our thinking. Advance Jersey is however a small political party, and it doesn’t have all the answers. We ask you and other not present this evening, for support. We need your ideas to help develop sensible moderate policies consistent with our values. And we need to encourage some of those who are standing for election – those who share our values – to consider standing as an AJ candidate. We need more Advance Jersey members of the States so that our influence can be brought to bear. If you have friends or colleagues in any of those categories, please let them know that we want to hear from them. Thank you for listening. We would be happy to try to answer your questions.

Advance Jersey Malcolm Ferey speech on 24 September 2025

Good evening and thank you for coming,
It is a privilege to speak with you today on a subject that is shaping the very character of our Island: the rise of Party politics, and the role it will play in determining our collective future.
For generations, this Island has prided itself on its independence of thought, on its traditions of consensus, and on its ability to govern itself without the tribalism that often marks political life elsewhere. We have long believed that our size and our close-knit community made us immune to the polarisation and power struggles that larger nations face.
Yet the truth is that the tide is turning. Party politics, once dismissed as a foreign phenomenon unsuited to our way of life, is now a growing reality. Parties are contesting elections. We are shaping debates. We are influencing public perception of how decisions should be made. And Party politics is here to stay.
The question before us, then, is not whether Party politics belongs on the Island. The question is how it will shape our future and how we, as a centre-right Party, can make sure it strengthens rather than divides our community.
Let me begin with the potential benefits. Advocates of Party politics argue that it brings clarity, accountability, and direction to government. Instead of independent candidates campaigning on personal reputations and piecemeal promises, Parties present coherent programmes. They offer voters a choice not simply between people, but between competing visions of the future laid out in properly researched and costed manifestos.
That, in principle, can strengthen democracy. If a Party sets out its policies before an election, and then gains a mandate, the public can hold it to account on delivery. The line between promise and performance becomes clearer. A voter can say, “I voted for your Party because of that policy in your manifesto, and you have delivered it or you have failed to deliver it.” In an age where trust in institutions is fragile, such clarity is valuable.
Party politics also promises to create stronger opposition. Instead of a scattering of independent voices, each arguing a separate case, Parties can consolidate their strength and challenge with organised critique. That can make government more responsive, more careful, and less complacent.
And in an Island that faces complex challenges, housing shortages, an ageing population, environmental vulnerability, and the need to diversify its economy, Party politics can provide the strategic coherence we desperately need. It can help us move beyond reactive policies and towards long-term plans rooted in a collective vision.
But, ladies and gentlemen, we must also be frank about the risks. Party politics carries within it the seeds of division. What once was a community of neighbours may, if we are not careful, become a battlefield of factions between town and country. Where once we judged our representatives by their character, their knowledge, and their service, we may instead judge them by the colour of their rosettes.
We need only look beyond our shores to see what can happen. Party loyalty can harden into dogma. Debate can descend into point-scoring. And worst of all, the Island’s interest can be sacrificed to the Party interest. If a government is unwilling to compromise simply because a good idea comes from the other side, the public loses. If opposition Parties obstruct every initiative simply to weaken those in power as we have witnessed recently with the left-wing Party, then the Island suffers.
There is also the danger that Parties will import the culture of distant capitals into our own halls of governance. Television and radio soundbites, social media attacks, the politics of outrage, these are not traditions we should wish to adopt. Our Island has thrived precisely because decisions could be debated face to face, person to person, with a measure of civility. We must not let Party politics strip us of that culture.
So how, then, will party politics shape the Island’s future? I would suggest three broad paths are possible.
Firstly, Party politics can strengthen our democracy. If Parties develop clear programmes, engage in honest debate, and compete to serve the public interest, then the Island may enjoy a new era of accountability and purpose. Voters would know what they are choosing, governments would have a clear mandate to act, and the system could deliver greater stability.
Secondly, Party politics could weaken our cohesion. If the parties become tribal, if loyalty to party outweighs loyalty to Island, then we may find ourselves paralysed by division. Policy could swing wildly from election to election, as one party tears down what another has built, leaving us trapped in cycles of waste and frustration.
Thirdly, and most likely, our future will lie between those two extremes. Party politics will become part of our fabric, but not the whole cloth. Some politicians will still stand as independents. Some debates will still cross-party lines. And the culture of consensus will still have influence, even if modified by the sharper edges of partisanship.
But here is the crucial point: the shape of that future does not depend only on politicians. It depends on all of us, the citizens, the voters, the people of this Island.
We must decide what kind of political culture we are willing to tolerate. If we reward parties for honest debate, for constructive opposition, for long-term vision, then that is the politics we will get. If we indulge parties that trade in division, obstruction, and shallow slogans, then we will reap the politics of bitterness.
That is why civic engagement matters now more than ever before. Party politics cannot be left to the politicians alone. It requires active citizenship: people who read manifestos critically, who attend hustings, who question their representatives, and who refuse to be swayed by empty promises.
And it requires a media that is fair and probing. Party politics thrives on communication, and if that communication is distorted by sensationalism or bias, the public will be misled. Our press must rise to the occasion, scrutinising policies with rigor while giving all voices a fair hearing.
Let us also remember we are a small community where people know their representatives personally. We meet them in the market, we see them at community events, we recognise them on the street. That intimacy is our strength, and it must not be lost.
Party politics must adapt to the Island, not the other way around. Our traditions of independence, civility, and pragmatism must remain intact. Parties should not become rigid machines; they should remain responsive to the people they serve. We must never forget that politics here is not about ideology, it is about practical solutions to real problems.
So, ladies and gentlemen, how will Advance Jersey move the Island forward?
We will sharpen our democracy, we will create a clear vision of the future, and we will field candidates who are credible and upstanding.
The choice is not predetermined. It lies in our hands: in the way we vote, in the standards we demand, and in the values we uphold. If we approach Party politics with vigilance, with maturity, and with a commitment to the common good, then we can be a positive force for change.
The Island’s story has always been one of resilience, adaptability, and community. Party politics is now part of that story. Let us write the next chapter wisely. Let us ensure that, whatever Parties rise or fall, the Island remains united, forward-looking, and true to itself.
Thank you.

Advance Jersey David Benn speech on 24 September 2025

Good evening, everyone, and thank you for joining us at this rebranding event for the Advance Jersey Party as we approach the pivotal 2026 election.
Tonight marks not only a transformation in our appearance but a reaffirmation of the enduring principles and values that shape our party. Though our name may have changed, our commitment to the well-being of Jersey remains steadfast and unwavering.
Rebranding often brings questions about shifts in direction or ideology. Let me assure you, the Advance Jersey Party has remained true to its roots. Our values—community, transparency, inclusion, and progress—are unchanged.

We have continued to meet regularly to discuss policy, refine our direction, and articulate our manifesto for the future. These meetings are more than administrative rituals; they are vibrant forums for meaningful debate, the exchange of ideas, and the forging of consensus.
Central to our party’s dynamism are our deputies, Sir Philip Bailhache and Malcolm Ferrey.
Both bring deep experience and unwavering dedication to our cause. They keep us informed of matters they are concerned with, raising issues for discussion and examination, ensuring that every policy we advance is grounded in the genuine needs and aspirations of Islanders. The opportunity to scrutinise, debate, and align ideas is a fundamental advantage of party membership. It transforms contentious issues into collaborative solutions, knitted together by shared values and a collective vision for Jersey’s future.
My own political journey began not with grand ambitions, but with a chance meeting.
At a lively pop-up event in King Street, I found myself deep in conversation with Julie Daley-Wallman. Julie’s warmth and conviction inspired me to consider standing for election and participating more directly in the political life of our island. Over the years, respected former States Members had encouraged me to stand, recognising my career and passion in farming and my passion for Jersey.
Yet, up until the 2022 election, the timing had never felt right.
It was only with the steady encouragement and wise counsel of Sir Philip and others within the party that I decided to take the leap. I stood on the party’s manifesto, which provided a strong foundation and a clear set of priorities. Standing as a party candidate rather than an independent proved invaluable. With centrally organised banners and election materials, I was given the space to focus on my own preparation and campaigning, maximising the time I could spend engaging directly with parishioners.
Campaigning is often described as a challenge, but it is also a privilege. Andrew Pim joined me on ‘the doorstep challenge’ with remarkable kindness and resilience. Together, we visited countless homes across the western parishes, meeting and talking with people from every walk of life. The conversations we had were not just about politics; they were about the hopes, fears, and everyday experiences of our fellow Islanders.
The issues most frequently raised by voters were clear and urgent: the hospital, housing, and the environment. These were not abstract problems—they were matters that affected people’s health, security, and the quality of life in Jersey. Our discussions were candid, sometimes passionate, but always rooted in a mutual desire to see Jersey thrive.
Through these interactions, I was continually reminded of my love for Jersey—its diverse population, rich history, unique language, and the global reputation it has earned over the years. The pride that Islanders feel, and the hope they carry for our future, is palpable. It is these qualities that drive me to serve and to dedicate myself to improving life on our island.
The 2022 election was a profound experience. I came remarkably close to being elected—just thirty-odd votes separated me from the Chief Minister, Lyndon, who took on the role and has done well. I have the utmost respect for his leadership. Yet, the closeness of the result underscored, for me, the significance of every single vote and every conversation on the doorstep.
I believe that my common-sense approach and the values of the Advance Jersey Party have and can make a real difference to Islanders. Together, we are shaping a future that is inclusive, prosperous, and respectful of our heritage.
I am pleased to see that Senators are returning to the States, bringing with them the legitimacy of an island-wide mandate. This is a critical development, as it empowers those elected to lead with authority and vision. I urge you to look further ahead, beyond the immediate concerns and towards the broader horizon.
The Chief Minister’s strategy, looking ahead 25 years, is a testament to our growing ambition. It represents a level of foresight that we have not seen in politics, and it sets a benchmark for others to follow. Consider JCB, the plant and equipment manufacturer, which plans fifty years ahead. We should be similarly bold, making decisions today that will ensure housing, education, health, and prosperity for all our grandchildren.
Our manifesto is not just a collection of promises. It is a strategic roadmap, informed by the lived experiences of Islanders and shaped by a rigorous process of debate and consensus-building. Every policy is designed to address the real challenges facing Jersey—affordable housing, world-class healthcare, environmental stewardship, and educational opportunity.
• Housing: We are committed to increasing access to affordable homes, investing in sustainable development, and supporting first-time buyers.
• Healthcare: Our policies prioritise modernising the hospital, recruiting and retaining skilled staff, and improving mental health services.
• Environment: Protecting Jersey’s unique environment is a cornerstone of our approach. This includes conservation initiatives, clean energy investments, and responsible development.
• Education: We believe in empowering every child and adult through lifelong learning, investment in schools, and support for teachers.
• Economic Prosperity: Our economic vision is rooted in innovation, support for local businesses, and sustainable growth that benefits all Islanders.
One of the most important advantages of being in a party is the ability to discuss contentious issues openly and constructively. In our meetings, every member has a voice. We examine each proposal, debate its merits, and ensure it aligns with our shared values. This culture of engagement strengthens our policies and builds trust within our community.
As we move towards the 2026 election, let us remember that our purpose as a party extends beyond winning seats. It is about serving Jersey, respecting its traditions, and nurturing its future. I invite every member, supporter, and voter to join us in this journey—to offer ideas, ask questions, and hold us accountable.
Together, we can continue to build a Jersey that we are proud to call home—a place where every individual has the opportunity to flourish, where our heritage is honoured, and where our collective vision shapes a brighter tomorrow.
Thank you for your unwavering support, your passion for our island, and your commitment to the Advance Jersey Party. The road ahead is long, but with unity and purpose, we will lead Jersey confidently into the future.