§ Mr. FoulkesTo ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department, pursuant to his reply to the hon. Member for Carrick, Cumnock and Doon Valley on Thursday 5 May, whether the state of Jersey has passed a protection of employment opportunities law; if it has been seen by his Department; when the state of Guernsey plans to discuss similar legislation which would involve restrictions on United Kingdom citizens; what action he proposes to take to protect their interests; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Douglas HoggThe Protection of Employment Opportunities (Jersey) Law 1988 was examined by the Home Office before my right hon. Friend advised Her Majesty The Queen in Council on the matter of Royal Assent which was given on 17 February 1988. The law enables the island authorities to make regulations, should the need arise, to protect employment opportunities in prescribed categories of employment for those having a connection with the Bailiwick. At present, no such regulations have been made and I understand none is planned in the foreseeable future. The freedom of movement of British citizens between the United Kingdom and the island is not curtailed by the Law.
I understand that the states of Guernsey intend to debate legislation, which might include matters relating to employment controls, in the near future. As with Jersey, should any such measures be proposed, they will be examined by the Home Office in the light of the need to ensure that those with close links with the island have adequate opportunities for employment.