Value Jersey: 'The government has their head in the sand'

A new political movement is launching in Jersey this week as the countdown to next year's general election continues.

Value Jersey comprises 'like-minded' islanders who want to improve life for 'middle Jersey' - middle income earners who are feeling financially squeezed.

The grouping, which stresses it is not a political party, says its aim is to focus on solutions that will make living and doing business here more affordable.

It hasn't revealed any election candidates yet, but we know there will be 12 speakers at a launch event on Wednesday (22 October) at the Sundown at 5:30 pm, including one of the directors of Broadlands estate agents, Harrison Trower.

Mr Trower, who confirmed to us that he will not be standing for election in June 2026, says the current government is pushing policies and new laws that are detrimental to the island as a whole.

"It needs to stop, basically.

"I think Value Jersey is a sign of where the population is at; there's a broad spectrum of people who are involved in it."

Credit: Harrison Trower

Mr Trower told Channel 103 that the speakers will range from students at Hautlieu and Victoria College to people in their late 60s.

He continues:

"I feel that the government has their head in the sand and we're here to pull their head out and let them see the bigger picture, so that  - moving forwards into 2026 - the prospects for Jersey are better."

With low voter registration and turnout in Jersey, Mr Trower says it is important people understand what's going on ahead of the election.

"It's been easy in Jersey for many, many years, and now the island is losing money, and things have to change.

"It's important that people who want to move things forward understand what people want and what they need.

"If that's not the case, then nothing will change and we'll be stuck in limbo for another four years."

In a social media video, Mr Trower said Value Jersey would represent islanders who feel like they are 'treading water':

Last month, political party Advance Jersey began its search for candidates for next June's election.

Formerly the  Jersey Liberal Conservatives, the party has rebranded as a 'strong centre-right party' aiming to counter Reform Jersey.

Sitting deputies Sir Philip Bailhache and Malcolm Ferey are members.