New Political Party Formed

Friday, 29 January 2021 at 09:48

A new political party has been set up in Jersey.

The Progress Party is led by Senator Steve Pallett, along with Deputy Steve Luce and former Deputy Eddie Noel.

It's being officially registered in the Royal Court today (Friday 29 January)

It is recruiting members and potential 2022 election candidates that can collectively deliver on its manifesto.

"The Progress Party has been formed to provide a forum for islanders, who share values and are committed to working together, to deliver a sustainable agenda and to encourage new candidates to put forward for the June 2022 General Election to help lead the island in a decisive, clear and effective way."

The party constitution incudes a 'whip' system for elected States Members.

The party's website lists its headline policies including on the economy, infrastructure, health, housing and population.

Party Leader Senator Steve Pallett - a former Assistant Minister - says he has been keen to offer prospective candidates support through 'a structured and progressive political party'.

He says the party will represent its membership and present policies that are developed by its membership.

"We have major hurdles to overcome if we are to rebuild our cherished island after the devastating worldwide pandemic and having politicians with a shared vision and manifesto has to be the way forward if we are to deliver a better future for Islanders."

Party Secretary and Whip Deputy Steve Luce - a former Environment Minister - hopes islanders will want to join and be part of 'a new way forward', saying being a member will bring an opportunity to be part of the decision-making process.

Party Treasurer Eddie Noel, a former St Lawrence Deputy and Infrastructure Minister, says that his time in office led him to the opinion that politicians as individuals have 'limited opportunities to deliver on policies they may have promised whilst seeking election'.

Until today, the island had only one political party - Reform Jersey - which was registered in 2014 and has five elected States Members.