Deputies Sloan and Camp have started the ball rolling on what it is to be hoped is the beginning of Guernsey’s return to fiscal prudence, although it is likely to be a long journey after probably 20 years of living well beyond our means.
The 2026 Budget put forward by the States just perpetuates the same failed approach as previous years, with the excuse they did not have any time to do anything different having only been elected in June.
As has been pointed out the budget contains inflation-busting increases in expenditure and an expectation of £40m. of tax receipts under the so-called Pillar II arrangements, money which, at best, is not receivable until 2027, and the arrangements themselves are not fully ratified, particularly by the United States.
It is time to recognise that substantial change is needed to get the economy back to a sustainable position which has to mean limiting expenditure and controlling the size of the state. The senior civil servant has said he understands the issue but can only act with the support and direction of the States.
The people of Guernsey will see very clearly which deputies understand the hard choices that are necessary when Deputies Sloan and Camp’s proposals come before the States this week.
Richard Battersby
St Peter Port
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