History and Government
History
Jersey has been inhabited for many thousands of years, as can be seen from the neolithic tomb at La Houge Bie. The Normans made the greatest impact on the Channel Islands, annexing them to the Duchy of Normandy during the 10th century. When William of Normandy gained the English crown in 1066, the Channel Islands became part of the Anglo-Norman realm; they were retained after the loss of Normandy in 1204. As a mark of his gratitude for their loyalty, King John granted Jersey its own constitution; this has been ratified by every successive monarch and the connection between the island and the English throne is expressed in the flag, which contains a crest surmounted by the Plantagenet crown.
Like its neighbours, Jersey has at various times been a haven for smugglers and pirates, and is also vulnerable to attack due to its proximity to France, so often Britain’s enemy in the past. The islanders fought off French invasions on many occasions, particularly during the 14th and 15th centuries. One of the most serious threats, led by the Baron de Rullecourt, was repelled in 1781. The Channel Islands were occupied by the Germans during World War II. The mixture of languages – English, French and Norman-French – reflects the history of the island. Jersey has jealously guarded its independence since the war, manifested in strict criteria governing rights of residency and a marked reluctance to accept controls over its thriving financial services industry. In recent years, however, under pressure from the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development, the Jersey authorities have been forced to cede some controls over the industry (see Economy). The island’s antique political system has also come under scrutiny. A process of public consultation began in November 2003; this is intended to produce a more democratic system, including a blueprint for a wider franchise and a wholly elected government by the time of the next general election in the autumn of 2005.
Government
Jersey is not part of the United Kingdom, but is a direct dependency of the British crown with its own legislative and taxation systems which are an intriguing blend of Norman and English. The Jersey States Assembly, one of the oldest legislative bodies in the world, is composed of 12 Constables, 12 Senators and 29 Deputies (none of whom receives any remuneration for their services), as well as several non-voting officials, some of whom are appointed by the crown. The island’s laws are subject to ratification by the Privy Council, although this is little more than a formality.
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