I am delighted to support this proposition as it will ensure that a collective resource is
brought to future negotiations with Her Majesty’s Government in relation to the
Reciprocal Health Agreement with Jersey.
The discontinuation of the long-standing agreement has been a particular concern of
mine from the outset of my time as Minister of Health and Social Services. I recognise
the considerable anxiety and confusion that changes introduced unilaterally by the
U.K. Government have caused, particularly for the elderly or for those with preexisting
conditions who have often found it hard to obtain health insurance when
wishing to visit friends and relatives on the mainland.
These points were discussed at a recent meeting with the Right Honourable Alain
Beith, M.P., in his role as Chair of the Justice Committee within the House of
Commons. This was in relation to that Committee’s review of the handling by the
U.K. of constitutional arrangements with the Crown Dependencies. The final report of
the Committee concluded that: “the lack of consultation and discussion of possible
options, with each Crown Dependency was a failing in the U.K. Government’s
approach to its responsibilities in deciding the future of the Reciprocal Health
Agreements”.
In seeking to negotiate a new agreement, a number of steps have been taken. My
Acting Chief Officer, together with the Director of International Affairs, now have a
meeting scheduled in early June with representatives of the U.K. Department of
Health as part of a new, more collaborative approach already being undertaken in
seeking to negotiate revised arrangements. The extension of the Isle of Man agreement
until September on the basis of reciprocal care, but without an exchange of money
between the U.K. and the Isle of Man, is providing a useful model for the future, and
the Director of International Affairs is liaising closely with both the Isle of Man and
the U.K. Department of Health as they work to conclude the terms of this extended
arrangement.
As I have said previously, I am committed to ensuring maximum benefit and value for
money for the people of Jersey seeking access to appropriate treatment in the U.K. and
welcome this proposition as an opportunity to fulfil that commitment.