Roffey - European Human Rights Convention membership ‘vital’

Prime Minister Boris Johnson spoke of leaving the ECHR after it intervened in a controversial attempt by the UK to deport asylum seekers to Rwanda.

External relations lead for Policy & Resources Jonathan Le Tocq said the situation was being closely monitored and officials were engaging with the UK regarding new developments. The Bailiwick had consistently demonstrated its commitment to upholding human rights, he said.

Deputy Peter Roffey said remaining in the convention was vital to keep the island’s government accountable.

‘The government is mindful of the human rights convention but no one is perfect, and that is why it was set up.’

The island cannot sign up to the convention in its own right, instead falling under its protection through extended cover from the mainland since 1953. This would be the first time a country has left the convention of its own volition.

‘I think it is a really important protection for Guernsey residents.

‘It is useful to have an independent referee looking over our shoulder – it would be an enormous backwards step if we left,’ said Deputy Roffey.

He said that governments were sometimes so passionate about workstreams they could sometimes be blind to whether aspects of it infringe on human rights, hence the importance of the convention.

While he said it would likely be replaced with a different body, the possibility of being without the ECHR was still concerning.

‘From my experience we don’t have an international persona to say we want to stay in the convention if the UK withdrew. I don’t think there is much we can do.’

He hoped Guernsey would be consulted should any decisions be made.

‘I would hope P&R would make representations as strongly as possible.’

The UK was the first nation to ratify the convention in 1951, which has no connection with the European Union.