The debate has been going on since Wednesday

The States continued to debate the amendments to the second policy letter on the future of Guernsey's government on Friday.

The house has seven amendments to consider.

An amendment by Deputy Mike Burbridge proposed Ministers and Chief Ministers serve two terms of four years in succession, was lost by a small majority.

It was argued this could lead to a situation where an excellent president, or one in the process of complex negotiations, would have to be removed.

'Ill-thought out'

A further amendment by Deputy John Gollop, calling for the term of Chief Ministers, Ministers and Department members to be cut to two years, instead of four, was also lost.

Deputy Gollop said it would give the States flexibility to replace underperforming members.

However, the Procedures and Constitution Committee President, Deputy Roger Berry described it as "ill-thought out".

Deputy Gollop's second amendment has also been lost.

It aimed to prevent ministers from other departments sitting on the Treasury and Resources Committee.