Press Release - Govt Alderney Amendment Law 11.09.2020

Island Law amendment allows emergency provisions

Emergency measures in the event of a crisis such as Covid-19 and the power to change how an election is conducted have been agreed by the States of Alderney.

States Members unanimously approved the text of the Government of Alderney (Amendment) Law 2020 which now goes forward for Royal sanction.

The Amendment permits the reintroduction of virtual meetings and other measures put in place during the height of the coronavirus crisis that allowed the continued functioning of the island's Government.

It also allows the postponement or bringing forward of an election, or the flexibility of calling a full postal ballot.

The measures would only be implemented if the Civil Contingencies Authority (CCA) declared an emergency and the President supported the action.

"It is hoped that the Amendment will be on the statute book in time for the November elections," said James Dent, Chairman of the Policy & Finance Committee. "I hope, as I believe all Islanders will, that emergency provisions will not be required - neither this year, nor for many years to come."

In addition, the Amendment allows Alderney's politicians to speak freely in the States without fear of civil proceedings against them. This 'full privilege' will bring Alderney into line with other global legislatures. However, Members are subject to the Code of Conduct which now has seven people on its review panel following the addition of Barbara Benfield and Roy Burke as approved by the full States meeting on September 9.

Ends