Deputy Jonathan Le Tocq, as a member of the Policy & Resources Committee and in his capacity as lead for Guernsey’s external relations, has been at the Labour Party Conference in Liverpool this week.
This trip was part of the regular pattern of relationship building with a range of UK parliamentarians. Guernsey’s government has a close working relationship both with the UK Government and with the Opposition and would continue to do so no matter which UK political party is in power at any point in time.
Guernsey (and the rest of the Bailiwick) has centuries-old links with the Crown and its constitutional relationship through the Crown with the UK remains very important to the Island; a point that was demonstrated during the recent formalities with the proclamation of His Majesty The King.
A number of meetings have taken place jointly with Jersey’s external relations lead (Deputy Philip Ozouf) as the islands share many interests and have worked together on preparations for the Conference. Guernsey representatives will also attend the Conservative Party Conference.
Deputy Le Tocq said: “The Labour Party Conference this year is a busy, buzzing place and there is a noticeably optimistic atmosphere. I’m pleased to have had the opportunity to meet existing and new Labour contacts – MPs and Lords, and amongst them, some members of the Shadow Cabinet and the wider shadow Ministerial team – including Jonathan Reynolds MP (pictured with Deputy Le Tocq), Steve Reed MP, Emily Thornberry MP and Stephen Doughty MP.
“Discussions have been on various topics, such as Labour Party members’ view on the current situation in UK politics and the next General Election; the UK-Guernsey constitutional relationship; how Guernsey is a positive and constructive part of the British family which has autonomy on domestic matters; on trade policies; and on how green finance can be a force for good.”
