Common Strategic Policy 2026 – 2030 (P.75/2026): sixth amendment. Lasting affordability and household support

2026  P.75 Amd.(6)

COMMON STRATEGIC POLICY 2026-2030 (P.75/2026): SIXTH AMENDMENT

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After the words "report accompanying this Proposition" insert the words –

", except that, on page 6 of the report, action 1.6 should be substituted with the following –

"1.6  Deliver  sustained  improvements  in  household  affordability,  through

measures  including  the  reduction  of  essential  living  costs,  and  the improvement of financial support for families and other households under financial pressure"".

DEPUTY L.V. FELTHAM OF ST. HELIER CENTRAL

Note:  After this amendment, the proposition would read as follows –

THE STATES are asked to decide whether they are of opinion

in accordance with Article 18(2)(e) of the States of Jersey Law 2005, to approve the statement of the Common Strategic Policy of the Council of Ministers as set out in the report accompanying this Proposition, except that, on page 6 of the report, action 1.6 should be substituted with the following –

  "1.6  Deliver  sustained  improvements  in  household  affordability,  through

measures  including  the  reduction  of  essential  living  costs,  and  the improvement of financial support for families and other households under financial pressure".

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P.75/2026 Amd.(6)

REPORT

Purpose

The purpose of this amendment is to ensure that the Government commits to delivering sustained  improvements  in  household  affordability,  including  through  reducing essential living costs and improving financial support for families and other households under financial pressure.

Background

The Council of Ministers has quite rightly identified the cost of living as a priority. However, whilst the proposed Common Strategic Policy includes specific measures to provide short-term assistance, action 1.6 commits only to reviewing affordability for 2028 onwards.

A review may help to inform policy, but the commitment within the Common Strategic Policy should be to improve Islanders' circumstances. This amendment would make that intention clear.

Financial pressure arises from the relationship between household income and the costs that households must meet. The Government therefore needs to consider both the affordability of essential goods and services and whether financial support is sufficient and accessible to those who need it.

For families, costs such as childcare can also affect the ability of parents to work and improve their household income. For pensioners, disabled Islanders and people with caring responsibilities, there may be limited opportunities to increase earnings to meet additional expenditure. These circumstances should be reflected in the Government's approach.

The amendment does not prescribe individual benefit rates or schemes. It enables Ministers to determine the appropriate measures, whilst making clear that the Assembly expects action throughout the term of Government.

Conclusion

This amendment gives the Assembly the opportunity to confirm that addressing the cost of living requires a sustained commitment to improving household finances. It would ensure that the Government's stated priority is reflected in a commitment to delivery.

Financial and staffing implications

The financial and staffing implications will depend on the measures brought forward by Ministers.  Policy  development  will  require  officer  time,  and  changes  to  financial support or services may require additional funding. These requirements should be identified within the relevant proposals and considered through the Budget process.

Children's Rights Impact Assessment

A Children's Rights Impact Assessment (CRIA) has been prepared in relation to this proposition and is available to read on the States Assembly website.

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P.75/2026 Amd.(6)