Ralph Vibert dies at 97

ONE of the giants of Jersey politics, former Senator Ralph Vibert, died yesterday at his home after a short illness.

Mr Vibert, who celebrated his 97th birthday on Friday, secured his place in Island history when he led the negotiations that secured its unique status as the UK joined the European Common Market in 1972. Not only was he considered a brilliant politician, he was a distinguished lawyer who served as Solicitor General.

His political career began in 1957 when he was elected as a Deputy for St Brelade. He became a Senator in 1959 and remained in that office until he retired from politics in 1987. He was awarded an OBE in 1977.

He served alongside some of the best-known names in local politics, among them current Chief Minister Frank Walker.

Senator Walker said that Mr Vibert had been a ‘great Jerseyman and a great gentleman’. ‘He was also one of the greatest politicians Jersey has ever known. Not least because of the position he negotiated for the Island with the EEC, now the European Union. We all owe him an enormous debt of gratitude,’ said Senator Walker.

Former Senator Dick Shenton said that when he was first elected to office in 1969 Ralph Vibert had been among the politicians re-elected at the same time. ‘That group were all fantastic — loyal Jerseymen who were prepared to fight for their Island. We would disagree strongly, but there was always respect,’ he said.

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