-
Constitution
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
Constitution
Guernsey, a Crown Dependency, is administered by the States of Guernsey. Its assembly, the States of Deliberation, derives its authority and powers from the Reform (Guernsey) Law, 1948, as amended. The Deputies are elected from each of the seven multi-seat constituencies by universal suffrage.
The Bailiwick is not represented in the UK Parliament. Acts of Parliament do not apply in the Bailiwick unless extended by Order in Council at the request of the island authorities. The UK Government is responsible for the Bailiwick's international representation and defence.
Guernsey has a special relationship with the EU, which is described in Protocol 3 to the 1973 Treaty of Accession when the UK joined the then EEC. The effect of the protocol is that the Bailiwick is within the Common Customs Area and the Common External Tariff (i.e. it enjoys access to EU countries of physical exports without tariff barriers). Other EU rules do not apply to the Bailiwick, however Guernsey voluntarily implements appropriate EU legislation and meets the international standards on which they are based.
Like the UK, Guernsey does not have a written constitution. There are a number of Royal Charters from successive sovereigns that define the rights, freedoms and privileges of the island. There are a number of "constitutional" laws which define the assembly, that give effect to rights described in certain international treaties and shape the way that States of Guernsey interact with the residents of the island.
External Relations Team
External Relations Team, Sir Charles Frossard House, La Charroterie, St Peter Port, Guernsey, GY1 1FH, Channel IslandsTel: +44 1481 717000 Email: erg@gov.gg
