She has been a dynamic representative of No. 2 District in the States, taking on many issues and helping individual cases. Since topping the poll last time, Shona has proven herself to be one of the few Deputies from the 2005 intake who has not only remained true to her word on issues like her opposition to GST, but also in being brave enough to tackle major issues such as much-needed constitutional reform. Shona will continue to fight for the interests of all sectors of our community, the middle earners as well as those who are the least well off.

Since 2005, as a member of the JDA I have consistently opposed the introduction of GST and supported balanced progressive taxation. In 2008 I brought propositions to remove GST from essential healthy food; and also to remove GST from children’s school uniforms. With my JDA colleagues I shall continue to push for GST to be removed food with immediate effect, and to have GST rescinded completely within three years. It can be done! This should go hand-in-hand

with a full review of the very flawed income support system.

The Council of Ministers under Senator Walker has allowed for rampant economic growth of 7%. This has resulted in population growth (90,000 and rising) largely through runaway immigration - over one third of new jobs in 2007 being filled by immigrant workers. The long term social impact on St. Helier in particular if this is allowed to continue will be catastrophic. As a St. Helier Deputy I will continue to strongly oppose the over-development of high-rise, high-density accommodation within the parish.

Reform of our government is desperately needed. In 2007 I was prevented by the Bailiff from lodging a proposition to allow a direct public vote for the election of Chief Minister. I have since brought a number of further propositions including two attempts to remove the secret ballot process by which the Chief Minister is presently elected by States Members, and a

proposition to split the dual roles of the Bailiff to bring us into line with other democracies – I will continue to fight for constitutional reform based on the Clothier Report.

As a member of the Education & Home Affairs Scrutiny Panel for the past three years, I am determined to see a more focussed approach to these key areas. Whilst supporting the long overdue move to implement free early years provision, it is absolutely essential that we ensure that provision is targeted for families where parents need to work. It is also imperative that all of our young people who are capable and aspire to higher education are supported to do so - we must maintain a grant system that makes this possible.