So-called collective responsibility, which forces all ministers in Jersey’s government to agree to policies produced in the name of the Council of Ministers, is to be scrapped.
The Chief Minister, who introduced the concept in 2014, first mooted proposals to scrap them last summer at a time it emerged there were splits developing in his cabinet.
Amendments to existing rules have now been lodged to formally scrap the system, as part of a package which will also make the States Chief Executive ultimately accountable for public spending.
It follows a number of incidents in recent years where civil servants and politicians have been able to avoid blame because of a lack of clarity in the rules.
The proposed changes to the States of Jersey and Public Finances Laws would, for the first time, make the Chief Executive of the States accountable for expenditure of public funds.
The Chief Executive would be required by law to ensure that public resources are used economically, efficiently and effectively, while also ensuring the performance of other senior public servants responsible for managing public funds. It comes as Charlie Parker takes up the top public sector job.
Chief Minister, Senator Ian Gorst, said: “These changes are essential to the creation of a modern and efficient public sector that works together as one government, delivering quality public services that offer value for money to the islanders of today and tomorrow.”
The Minister for Treasury and Resources, Senator Alan Maclean, said: “We must have clear governance, transparent decision-making and stronger accountability at the top of the public service, all of which will be delivered by these important changes.”
The package is due to be considered by the States Assembly next month.
