Closing open market loophole bid is lost

CALLS for the Policy Council to close a multiple occupancy 'loophole' in the open market were defeated amid fears the move would play 'Russian roulette' with the economy.

The comparison was made by Deputy Kevin Stewart, who warned the amendment by Deputy Mark Dorey, pictured, instructing the Policy Council to devise a way to phase out 'misuse' of private open market properties to house unrelated adults, would have ramifications for businesses.

But Deputy Matt Fallaize said the lack of proper control of the open market was one of the major concerns that arose when it was resolved to cap the island's population in 2007.

'It was one of the most galling examples of where the States did not have sufficient control to manage the size and make-up of the population,' he said.

In the end the amendment was defeated by 29 votes to 16.