Source · Select Committees · Justice Committee
Recommendation 13
13
Deferred
Paragraph: 49
Develop MoJ mechanism to faithfully represent Crown Dependency interests in negotiation conflicts
Conclusion
Representation of the interests of the Crown Dependencies in international relations is not optional, according to whether or not their interests are in line with those of the UK: it is the UK Government’s duty. In cases of conflict, the Ministry of Justice must endeavour to find a mechanism for representation which will faithfully present and serve the interests of both parties. Having the Crown Dependencies represented during negotiations by specifically designated officials would go some way towards addressing this issue.
Government response summary AI-generated
The government merely acknowledged the Committee's recognition of positive direct engagement, without addressing its duty to represent Crown Dependency interests in cases of conflict or the proposal for specifically designated officials.
Summary of the government's response below — read the verbatim text to verify.
Paragraph Reference:
49
Government Response
Deferred
HM Government · verbatim extract
Deferred
35. The Government will seek to represent any Crown Dependency interests which differ from those of the UK when acting in an international capacity. This is in line with the international identity frameworks signed between the UK Government and the Crown Dependencies in 2007-2008. 36. The Government cannot, however, guarantee that it will always be in a position to represent the Crown Dependencies’ views internationally where they diverge from the UK’s own interests. 37. Moreover, whilst the UK Government seeks to deliver the best deal for the UK and the Crown Dependencies, we cannot guarantee that negotiating partners will agree to the preferred outcomes of the UK Government or of the Crown Dependencies, and therefore we may not be able to secure everything we initially seek. 38. The official leading on the territorial application chapter will have extensive knowledge of, and engagement with, the Crown Dependencies. This will ensure the UK negotiating team is always aware of Crown Dependency priorities for individual agreements.
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