THE code that governs the behaviour of States Members could be amended in a bid to rebuild public trust, if a revised version by a panel of politicians gets the green light.
The revised code, drawn up by the Privileges and Procedures Committee, is due for debate next month.
It replaces the current format with a simpler, rules-based system, setting out clearer expectations for how Members should manage conflicts of interest, conduct themselves during investigations, and communicate both in person and online.
The changes follow a consultation with members last year, where politicians were asked what they believed should change in the code that the Commissioner for Standards uses to assess complaints against them.
PPC Chair Karen Shenton Stone said: “These rules are fundamental to building trust and respect in our Assembly.
“We know from the Jersey Opinions and Lifestyle Survey Report published in 2024 that the States Assembly is the least trusted institution in the Island.
“Having an acknowledged set of rules by which we all abide hopefully demonstrates to the public that States Members are accountable, not just at election time.”
For the first time, the code will be supported by a set of detailed guidance notes. These are intended to help clarify what each rule means and how it should be applied, making the expectations more transparent for Members, staff, and the public.
The revised code also includes new definitions for behaviours such as harassment, bullying, and discrimination. It sets out how Members should engage with the Commissioner for Standards during an investigation and introduces tighter rules around declaring personal and financial interests.
