Election 2008

It seems to me that the political process in the States has become dysfunctional. In particular there are three issues which have motivated me to stand:

First, the zero-10 tax strategy is unsustainable.

Secondly, although the proposal to go for population growth was rightly thrown out, it seems likely to come back.

Thirdly, people did not expect the States to save money by cutting essential services such a student grants and the schools dental service.

In the short term, the zero-10 tax strategy needs to be changed to produce a larger Budget surplus whilst keeping the finance industry competitive, and therefore happy.

The larger surplus will enable us to maintain the islands services and, at the same time, perhaps, to develop the future potential of tidal power. The latter should be regarded not only as a source of electricity, but in the long term could be a source of income and a burgeoning industry concerned with installing and maintaining the turbines. We should not let the opportunity slip away

That is consistent with my long term aim, which is to help the island frame a sustainable future, providing the kind of environment in which its people can happily thrive, paying particular attention to education and local industry.

Economic growth comes primarily from technological progress. There is therefore no need to increase the population to get growth. What is required is an educated, trained, skilled work force. That is why the local education system must be clearly focused, from primary school onwards, to produce enlightened and adaptable people.