The first immigrants came to Guernsey in 1963 from Madeira

States members approved legislation which could lead to people being prosecuted for inciting racial hatred.

Deputy Jean Pritchard says there is evidence some Portuguese and Latvian workers are being subjected to racism.

Ten members opposed the proposed legislation, including Deputy Sam Maindonald who believes there are grave dangers in using the UK as a model.

I'm sure it will make people think a bit more about what they say and do Joe Gomes, Madeiran Community Council

Ms Maindonald said: "You only have to look at the race discrimination legislation in the UK to see that, in my opinion, it has caused all sorts of problems and resentment among British people.

"It has stifled debate on important race issues and has bred an undesirable culture of political correctness and a 'try-on' compensation culture."

But a spokesman for the Madeiran Community Council in Guernsey has welcomed the decision.

Joe Gomes said: "I think it is a good thing. I've certainly had complaints from parents about verbal abuse of their children at school, but I wasn't aware it was such a big problem.

"If the new laws will alleviate the problem here, I think it's good and I'm sure it will make people think a bit more about what they say and do."

There are about 1,100 Portuguese people living in the island, representing about 1.8% of Guernsey's population.