Scrutiny seeks clarification on government decision to award further grant to Battle of Flowers
Scrutiny
12 August 2025
The Economic and International Affairs Scrutiny Panel has written to the Minister for Sustainable Economic Development to better understand the government’s decision to approve an extra £121,000 grant to the organisers of this summer’s Battle of Flowers parade.A letter of instruction, co-signed by the Chief Minister, was issued to the Economic department approving the extra funding to ensure the organisation could settle any outstanding debts to support the delivery of last week’s event. The letter also instructs the department not to recoup a £90,000 top-up grant which was awarded in 2024.
The Panel understands that the funding awarded last week will be deducted from future grants and has requested more details about how that arrangement will be managed to avoid placing undue financial strain on the event’s organisers. It has also requested that the Minister outline any arrangements that have been made regarding the 2024 top-up grant.
Deputy Montfort Tadier, Chair of the Panel, said: ‘The Battle of Flowers has been a highlight in Jersey’s event calendar for more than 100 years. It is an event that brings the community together and showcases the talent the Island has to offer. The Panel is pleased to see that this year’s parade has been a success and would like to congratulate all those involved in putting on a such a show.’
‘However, there are questions around process and due governance that we would like Ministers to explain. The Panel understands that the decision to award these grants may not fully comply with the Public Finances Manual. If this is the case, then it is important that the reasoning behind these decisions is outlined in a clear and transparent way. It is important that all organisations applying for and receiving grants feel that they are on a level playing field.’
