A FINANCE and policy leader in Jersey and the UK is to stand for Senator in the upcoming election.
Sir Mark Boleat is a former political leader of the City of London who was knighted in 2017 for services to the financial services industry and local government in London.
The former Victoria College student is senior adviser to the Policy Centre Jersey, a former chairman of Andium Homes, the Jersey Development Company and the Jersey Competition and Regulatory Authority and has been a regular JEP columnist.
He stood unsuccessfully in 2022 as leader of the ill-fated Jersey Alliance party. Sir Mark has confirmed he will be standing as an independent candidate this time.
Speaking about his decision to seek an Islandwide mandate, Sir Mark said: “I wish to offer myself as part of the team in the States Assembly, working collaboratively and positively to address the many issues facing the Island – including the high cost of living, ageing population, young people leaving the island, transport links and many other issues.
“I hope that the experience I have gained in business, public bodies, and charities in both Jersey and Britain, together with my understanding of local policy issues and commitment to the Island, would allow me to be an effective member of the States Assembly.
“Jersey needs politicians who can maintain the Island’s distinctive character whilst also being prepared to take difficult decisions. While we should learn from others, we also need to recognise that Jersey is different and should take its own approach.”
The Senatorial seats are returning this year having been scrapped ahead of the 2022 election. Sir Mark becomes the ninth person to confirm they will stand for one of the nine Islandwide seats on offer after Chief Minister Lyndon Farnham, Treasury Minister Elaine Millar, External Relations Minister Ian Gorst, Environment Minister Steve Luce, Housing Minister Sam Mézec, Home Affairs Minister Mary Le Hegarat, former Home Affairs Minister Deputy Helen Miles and former hospital project director Bernard Place.
Sir Mark added: “Jersey needs effective and competent government. High quality public services need to be delivered efficiently, and major public policy issues tackled promptly. Public expenditure has grown excessively and needs to be brought under control.
“The prosperity of every Islander depends on a healthy economy. The finance sector accounts for 45% of economic activity and around two thirds of tax revenue. It needs to be supported alongside other high value sectors that, together, generate the tax revenues we need to support our critical public services.
“The cost of housing is a major concern for many and tackling this needs to be a top priority for the next government. The planning system also needs reform. It is currently a major obstacle to a growing economy as well as posing unnecessary burdens on people when they want to make reasonable improvements to their homes.”
Islanders will head to the polls on Sunday 7 June.
