New Political Party Formed

Friday, 29 January 2021 09:48

A new political party has been set up in Jersey.

The Progress Party is led by Senator Steve Pallett, along with Deputy Steve Luce and former Deputy Eddie Noel.

It's being officially registered in the Royal Court today (Friday 29 January)

It is recruiting members and potential 2022 election candidates that can collectively deliver on its manifesto.

"The Progress Party has been formed to provide a forum for islanders, who share values and are committed to working together, to deliver a sustainable agenda and to encourage new candidates to put forward for the June 2022 General Election to help lead the island in a decisive, clear and effective way."

The party constitution incudes a 'whip' system for elected States Members.

The party's website lists its headline policies including on the economy, infrastructure, health, housing and population.

Party Leader Senator Steve Pallett - a former Assistant Minister - says he has been keen to offer prospective candidates support through 'a structured and progressive political party'.

He says the party will represent its membership and present policies that are developed by its membership.

"We have major hurdles to overcome if we are to rebuild our cherished island after the devastating worldwide pandemic and having politicians with a shared vision and manifesto has to be the way forward if we are to deliver a better future for Islanders."

Party Secretary and Whip Deputy Steve Luce - a former Environment Minister - hopes islanders will want to join and be part of 'a new way forward', saying being a member will bring an opportunity to be part of the decision-making process.

Party Treasurer Eddie Noel, a former St Lawrence Deputy and Infrastructure Minister, says that his time in office led him to the opinion that politicians as individuals have 'limited opportunities to deliver on policies they may have promised whilst seeking election'.

Until today, the island had only one political party - Reform Jersey - which was registered in 2014 and has five elected States Members.

More from Jersey News

Jury finds Shay John Bester guilty of offences including rape

Shay John Bester has been found guilty, after going on trial for offences including six counts of rape against three young, vulnerable females.
African community groups express 'disappointment' with Deputy Ozouf sentencing

Friends of Africa Jersey and the Kenyans in Jersey Committee have come together to express their disappointment following Deputy Philip Ozouf's sentencing, and are calling for increased protection for workers who speak out about exploitation.
Island Energy to return to Royal Court over Mont Pinel gas explosion

Island Energy is set to return to the Royal Court to enter pleas after being charged by the Health and Safety Inspectorate over a gas explosion at Mont Pinel.
Jersey to introduce legal limit for PFAS in drinking water

A legal limit for PFAS in Jersey's drinking water will be introduced for the first time.
Jersey Electricity drops St Martin solar farm idea

Jersey Electricity has dropped plans for a solar farm on land in St Martin belonging to the King.
PPC won't move to block Deputy's return to States Assembly

The committee that oversees States Members' conduct says it won't being a proposition to further suspend Deputy Philip Ozouf following his conviction for immigration offences.
Jersey's next government urged to create laws preventing exploitation of workers

Charities in Jersey are urging politicians to prioritise drawing up laws to abolish modern-day slavery.
Philip Ozouf sentenced to 120 hours community service

Deputy Philip Ozouf has been sentenced to 120 hours community service and ordered to pay £5,000 for immigration offences.