The States will hold the debate in September

The States is planning to give a piece of land worth �10m to Les Pas to settle a dispute over its claim to ownership of St Helier's foreshore.

Bailiff Sir Philip Bailhache and Deputy Bailiff Michael Birt have ruled themselves out of overseeing a debate which has caused controversy.

It is thought the Deputy Greffier of the States, Mrs Anne Harris, will chair the meeting, due to be held on 16 September.

Queen petition

Les Pas Holdings has been claiming ownership of a large area of the waterfront for several years and has threatened to take the States to court over the issue.

The island's Policy and Resources Committee is proposing handing over the land to Les Pas to avoid further court action.

Several people have voiced their opposition to the plans.