Morale boost needed over economy

More needs to be done to reassure people about Jersey's economic prospects, a minister has said.

A recent survey showed people had less confidence in Jersey than in Guernsey.

Economic Development Minister Phillip Ozouf said it suggests the States has failed to boost public morale, despite its efforts to secure more business.

Media reports of the economic downturn and election arguments over the economy combined to damage islanders' faith in Jersey's ability, he suggested.

The survey was carried out by Island Analysis, which spoke to 1,500 people in Jersey and Guernsey.

In Guernsey, 27% of those questioned said they were worried about losing their jobs, whereas the figure in Jersey was 42%.