Justice minister rejects call for Sark inquiry

The Conservative MP had read the open letter the high-profile campaigners had written but did not think it the best way forward for Sark. 'I have considered the open letter and have noted the responses from Chief Pleas and the States of Guernsey. There have been calls for direct intervention from the UK government. I believe that local efforts to produce solutions are the best way forward.

'I urge all with an interest in Sark's future to engage positively with its elected government, which is responsible for the island's economic strategy.'

On behalf of the group of 22, Rupert Dorey said this did not spell the end of their interest in the island, and helping to ensure its future was prosperous.

'We note the response from the Justice minister and his call for all parties with an interest in Sark's future to engage positively,' he said. 'We very much hope that his call will be heeded by Chief Pleas, the States of Guernsey and Jersey, the UK Government and all other interested parties.

'We have engaged with Chief Pleas, accepted their invitation to meet, and we look forward to doing so within the next two weeks. We believe that only with the concerted effort of all these parties will a lasting and sustainable solution be found.'