Minister denies 'strained relationship'

David Lammy is one of the youngest members of parliament

Jersey's relationship with the UK is not strained, according to the new UK minister with responsibility for the Channel Islands.

David Lammy was appointed following the latest reshuffle of ministerial responsibilities in Whitehall.

His comments follow remarks made by the Bailiff earlier this year, when he said the link between the government and the States was becoming increasingly difficult.

But while visiting Jersey for the first time since taking up his post, Mr Lammy denied that was the case after meeting the Bailiff, members of the Policy and Resources Committee and senior civil servants.

"I hope relationships are not strained," he said.

'Important issues'

"I had a very good meeting and I know that, in the past, there have been very important issues for the Channel Islands.

"I see my role as working with the Channel Islands to take these issues forward across the UK government, as indeed other ministers have before me."

Mr Lammy, 31, one of the youngest members of parliament, was elected in Tottenham in 2000.

He was appointed when the link between the States and the UK government shifted from the Lord Chancellor's Office to the recently created Department for Constitutional Affairs.

His visit followed the news at the weekend of the death of one of his predecessors in the job.

Lord Williams of Mostyn, who was leader of the House of Lords, died suddenly on Saturday aged 62.