Alderney President calls for 'clarity' on finance and air links

The President of the States of Alderney has called for more talks on finance and air links with representatives from the other Channel Islands.

William Tate warned the All-Party Parliamentary Channel Islands Group (APPCIG) that it must address issues around subsidies and connectivity to make sure Alderney is a 'sustainable community for the 21st century'.

The meeting at the Houses of Parliament was chaired by MP Andrew Rosindell and attended by 22 members of parliament and peers. It was attended by politicians from across the Channel Islands and a representative from the Isle of Man.

On Alderney’s financial relationship, Mr Tate called for 'clarity' on the levels of subsidies the island can claim.

Mr Tate also said discussions around Aurigny's air links had proved fruitless after two years - describing the prospect of visitors having to travel through Guernsey as 'a massive disincentive economically'.

He argued that without decisive action, Alderney would struggle to retain people to live on the island - particularly older residents whose families want to be closer to them.

MP Andrew Rosindell told the group he understands how 'detrimental' it would be to Alderney if its connectivity was reduced.