Fresh call to remove Bailiff from States

Wednesday 12th March 2008, 12:00AM GMT.

POLITICIANS are to be asked to be debate a proposal to split the role of the Bailiff and replace his post in the States by an independent speaker of the assembly.

The proposition is being drawn up by the Jersey Democratic Alliance in the wake of the investigation into child abuse at Haut de la Garenne, which has turned the media spotlight on Jersey.

It could be debated before the end of the summer if one of the JDA’s States Members lodges the proposition.

The political party said that it wants a debate to separate the Bailiff’s dual roles as head of both the judiciary and legislature.

JDA chairman Trevor Pitman said: ‘The potential for serious conflict of interests inherent in one individual occupying two such important roles has been a concern for a significant time.

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