Town Constable Simon Crowcroft wanted the money to be put in the island's rainy day fund.

He said the money was being used to employ so-called spin doctors, which he said he did not think were needed.

His amendment was lost by 20 votes in favour to 31 against. Some States members said the money was only used to improve communications with the public.

Constable Crowcroft's amendment was supported by Senator Stuart Syvret, who said: "Spin is spin. You don't have to tell lies or untruths in order to spin."

But Deputy Guy De Faye added during the debate: "The concept here is better communications between the government of the island and the people of the island, and that is an extremely important matter."