Senator Ted Vibert wanted only elected members of the States presiding over it and does not think there should be unelected members in the House.

He also wanted the Bailiff, the Attorney and Solicitor General, and the dean of Jersey removed from the States.

But Frank Walker, President of Policy and Resources, feared relationships with the Crown could be affected.

Ministerial government

The amendment was rejected by 41 votes against, to five in favour, and with one abstention.

The Lieutenant Governor, as the resident representative of the Crown, attends the States on occasions but takes no part in debates.

The Attorney General and the Solicitor General are the law officers of the Crown and are appointed by the Crown. They have the right to speak but not to vote.

The issue was debated as the States considers a new system of ministerial government.

The States of Jersey Law will see the island have a new body, a council of ministers, led by a chief minister by the end of next year.

And voting could also take place in six super constituencies rather than in individual parishes.