Chief secretary leaves Economic Development

It means further upheaval for the committee, which recently saw Deputy Peter Ferbrache quit as president to be replaced in an election earlier this week by Deputy Charles Parkinson.

Mr Williams was a key driver behind the committee's vision setting out the work it wants to do this term, which is due to be debated next month but which has already been criticised by the new president and others.

States chief executive Paul Whitfield said: ‘Clearly, as with all employers, I am unable to comment publicly about any matters relating to an individual’s employment, other than to say I wish Chris well for all of his future endeavours.’

As an interim measure Steve Wakelin, Government’s chief strategy and policy officer, will work alongside senior staff within Economic Development, the committee’s new president and its members.

Mr Whitfield said: ‘While there is already an established senior leadership team in the Office for Economic Development, with officers specialising in various areas of the economy relevant to the committee’s mandate, this interim measure will help ensure continuity. Steve already works closely with staff in Economic Development, as many of his responsibilities as chief strategy and policy officer align with the policy objectives of the committee to help maintain Guernsey’s place as a leading jurisdiction for business.’

Mr Williams was only took up the role in June and was described as an economist with vast experience and with a proven track record of offering high-level advice.

Deputy Parkinson already faces a tough task, having seen off the challenge of vice-president Jan Kuttelwascher for the top job.

Deputy Kuttelwascher has said he will resign, but not until having seen the vision document debated by the States.

The other three board members are also understood to be willing to block any moves from Deputy Parkinson to withdraw the policy at this stage.