New Political “Movement” Future Guernsey Unveiled

A new political “movement” named Future Guernsey has been initiated in Guernsey. Its founders include a former chief minister, the former chief executive of ITN, and a PR professional. Deputy Gavin St Pier is set to serve as Future Guernsey’s political advisor, with John Hardie taking on the role of chair, and Lindsey Freeman appointed as the charity’s chief executive. The organization clarified that this new “movement” does not constitute a political party, though it could potentially evolve into one at a later stage. During its launch event, Future Guernsey outlined its primary political objectives, which encompass housing, health, the climate, education, fiscal sustainability, and the economy. Future Guernsey is not officially recognized as a political party because it has not completed registration with the Greffe, which serves as the island’s court office. The designation “Future Guernsey” was previously revealed in 2021 as a rebranding of the Guernsey Partnership of Independents. This earlier entity had 10 out of its 21 candidates successfully elected in the October 2020 election. The Guernsey Partnership of Independents dissolved in September 2021, with its members stating it was “never a true political party.” The individuals initiating the formal launch of Future Guernsey declared that its emphasis would be on “policy not personality.” The movement plans to publish a manifesto prior to the 2025 general election. Approximately 200 individuals were present at the group’s launch event, held earlier at the Princess Royal Centre for the Performing Arts. Preceding its launch, the group conducted research involving 250 individuals, which included several focus groups, during July and August. Data from the new group indicates that 43% of the surveyed population expressed support for the concept of political parties, whereas 23% voiced opposition. The research conducted by the charity revealed that only one in ten individuals believed the existing political system was effective, and fewer than a third reported trusting States members to make decisions. Three-quarters of those who responded indicated a preference for a government founded on policies instead of personalities. Deputy Gavin St Pier has affirmed his intention to run in next year’s general election, while Mr Hardie mentioned he is contemplating a candidacy. Ms Freeman stated she would not be seeking election in 2025. To date, over a quarter of current deputies have indicated their intention to seek re-election. Furthermore, Deputies Charles Parkinson and Mark Helyar, who had previously declared they would not stand, now concede they are “seriously” considering it. The sole political party currently active in the islands is The Guernsey Party, which is headed by Deputy Simon Vermeulen and includes Deputy John Dyke among its members. The upcoming election is scheduled for 18 June 2025.