Change to election eligibility criteria voted down

Jersey politicians have voted against a change allowing non-British citizens to stand in the island's general election under certain circumstances.

Candidates have to be a British citizen to stand for election in Jersey.

However, Deputy Carina Alves wanted to expand the criteria to people who have permanent entitled status, which means they have lived in the island for 30 years, and have passed the Knowledge of Life (Citizenship Test).

Some politicians said there were national security concerns that had to be addressed first.

Speaking outside the States Assembly, Deputy Alves said she was disappointed by the result and argued there was "a double standard" from some politicians because they voted in favour to bring back senators.

"They're now using reasons they should've used in that debate to vote against this one," she said.

"We have a number of people in our community who have dedicated so much of their life to the island and I think that they should have a right to stand for election."

She said she would bring back the proposition to the States if re-elected.

Deputy Moz Scott voted against the proposition due to concerns over national security.

"I think the intent was positive," she said.

"We might have certain jurisdictions that we regard as potentially unfriendly to British security interests.

"If the proposition came back and we have had an opportunity to talk to the British intelligence authorities and looked at a constitutional reasons why we have things the way they are then I could be supportive of it."

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