From Deputy Geoff Southern.
I write in response to the letter from L C Aubert (JEP, 11 Jun) ‘Why vote for a Deputy who will need replacing?’

The points she makes seem to misunderstand the democratic process and in particular the way in which the States of Jersey operates. Many people think that a candidate for a Senator’s seat should first serve their apprenticeship as a Deputy. Indeed there is some truth in this belief. To achieve anything in the States needs experience in how the rules operate. Novices to Senatorial positions often flounder.

When a candidate for Senator puts his policies to the whole Island and is successful, he is able to state categorically that he has a mandate to deliver. The position of Senator does carry an added weight in decisions that affect the whole Island.

In standing for election after eight years of hard work as a Deputy, I seek a stronger mandate to defend public services and to challenge the savage spending cuts proposed by current serving Senators on the Council of Ministers.

Should I be elected, the consequent by-election for Deputy to replace me should surely be welcomed. It will give a further opportunity for the electorate to choose a candidate that truly represents their interests. The Jersey Democratic Alliance will obviously be working hard in St Helier No 2 to make sure that the new Deputy will be another progressive voice in the States.