Shopping on line can be easy, simple and save you lots of money. It can also take a lot of your time, frustrate you, and result in unwanted purchases. Now the same can be said for regular high street shopping, but with the vast opportunity presented by the Internet it will pay you to spend a few minutes reading this and understanding how to better optimize your Jersey shopping experience:

1. Compare - without doubt the biggest advantage that the Jersey offers shoppers today is the ability to compare thousands of Jersey at a time. This is a great thing, but not necessarily all the time! Too much can be daunting at times so take advantage of the great comparison sites and where possible let them do the hard work for you.

2. Research - if it has been said it will be on the internet. Ignorance is no longer a justifiable reason for buying the wrong thing. Take the time to research in detail everything that you could possible want to know about

3. Testimonials - don't know anybody that has bought a Jersey? Wrong! If the Jersey is good the internet will let you know. Use the Internet as a friend and get testimonials before you buy.

4. Questions - Got a question about Jersey then search the Forums, FAQ's, Blogs etc. Don't be afraid to ask .....

5. Reputation - Never heard of the company selling Jersey? Don't worry, no reason why you should know every company in the world, but you know someone that does! Use the internet to find out what people are saying about Jersey and build up a picture of their reputation for sales, returns, customer service, delivery etc.

6. Returns - still worried that even after all of the above your Jersey wont be what you want? Check out the returns policy. There is so much competition now that someone, somewhere is bound to offer the terms that you are comfortable with.

7. Feedback - happy with your Jersey then let people know, after all you are depending on others people input in your buying decision, so why not give a little back.

8. Security - check for the yellow padlock on the Jersey site before you buy, and the s after http:/ /i.e. https:// = a secure site

9. Contact - got a question about Jersey, or want to leave a comment then check out the sites contact page. Reputable companies have them and respond.

10. Payment - ready to pay for your Jersey, then use your credit card or PayPal! Be aware of companies that don't accept them, there may be genuine reasons but given the huge amount of choice you have when buying online there is no reason at all not to buy via credit card or PayPal.

{{Infobox Country or territory|native_name = Bailiwick of JerseyBailliage de Jersey|common_name = Jersey|image_flag = Flag of Jersey.svg|image_coat = Jersey coa.svg|image_map = LocationJersey.png|national_motto =|national_anthem = "God Save the Queen" (official)"Ma Normandie" ("My Normandy") (official for occasions when distinguishing anthem required)], French language|regional_languages = Jèrriais|latd=49 |latm=11.401 |latNS=N |longd=2 |longm=06.600 |longEW=W|largest_city = capital|government_type = [Parliamentary Democracy, Constitutional Monarchy, Crown Dependency|leader_name2 = Lt. Gen. [Andrew Ridgway|leader_name3 = Sir [Philip Bailhache|leader_name4 = Senator [Frank Walker (Jersey politician)|area_rank = 219th|area_magnitude = 1 E8|area_km2 = 116|area_sq_mi = 45 ]-->|population_density_rank = 12th2|GDP_PPP = £3.6 billion |GDP_PPP_rank = 167th|GDP_PPP_year = 2003|GDP_PPP_per_capita = £40,000 (2003 estimate)|GDP_PPP_per_capita_rank = 6th|sovereignty_type = Status|sovereignty_note = British crown dependency from German occupation|established_date1 = 1204|established_date2 = [9 May 19453|currency_code = GBP|country_code =|time_zone = [Greenwich Mean Time|utc_offset =|time_zone_DST =|utc_offset_DST = +1|cctld = .je|footnote1 = Jersey in Figures|footnote2 = Rank based on population density of Channel Islands including [Guernsey.] notes and coins (see Jersey pound).-->

The Bailiwick of Jersey (Jèrriais: Jèrri) is a British Crown dependency off the coast of Normandy, France. As well as the island of Jersey itself, the Bailiwick includes the nearly uninhabited islands of the Minquiers, Écréhous, the Pierres de Lecq and other rocks and reefs. Together with the Bailiwick of Guernsey it forms the grouping known as the Channel Islands. The defence of all these islands is the responsibility of the United Kingdom. However, Jersey is not part of the UK, nor the European Union, but is rather a separate possession of the Crown, comparable to the Isle of Man. Jersey belongs to the Common Travel Area.

History Jersey history is influenced by its strategic location between the northern coast of France and the southern coast of England; the island's recorded history extends over a thousand years.

Evidence of bronze-age and early iron-age settlements can be found in many locations around the island. While archaeological evidence of Ancient Rome influence has been found, in particular the coastal headland site at Le Pinacle, Les Landes, where remains of a primitive structure are attributed to Roman temple worship (fanum), evidence for regular Roman occupation has yet to be established.

Formerly under the control of Brittany and named Angia (also spelled Agna ), Jersey became subject to Viking influence in the ninth century, one of the "Norman Islands". The name for Jersey itself is sourced from a Viking heritage: the Norse suffix -ey for island can be found in many places around the northern European coasts. However, the significance of the first part of the island's toponym is unclear. Among theories are that it derives from jarth (Old Norse: "earth") or Earl, or perhaps a personal name, Geirr, to give "Geirr's Island"."Jersey", Concise Dictionary of World Place-Names. John Everett-Heath. Oxford University Press 2005. Oxford Reference Online. Oxford University Press. Jersey Library. 6 October 2006 Alternatively support for a Celtic origin can be made with reference to the Gaulish gar- (oak), ceton (forest). It is also said to be a corruption of the Latin Caesarea, the Roman name for the island, influenced by Old English suffix -ey for "island"; this is plausible if regional pronunciation of Latin implied that Caesarea was not pronounced but .

The island was eventually annexed to the Duchy of Normandy by William I of Normandy, Duke of Normandy in 933; his descendant, William I of England, Norman conquest in 1066, which led to the Duchy of Normandy and the kingdom of England being governed under one monarch. The Dukes of Normandy owned considerable estates on the island, and Norman families living on their estates founded many of the historical Norman-French Jersey family names. John I of England lost all his territories in mainland Normandy in 1204 to Philip II of France, but retained possession of Jersey, along with Guernsey and the other Channel Islands; the islands have been internally self-governing since.

Islanders became involved with the Newfoundland (island) fisheries in the late sixteenth century. In recognition for all the help given to him during his exile in Jersey in the 1640s, Charles II of England gave George Carteret, Bailiff and governor, a large grant of land in the American colonies, which he promptly named New Jersey, now part of the United States of America.

Trade laid the foundations of prosperity, aided by neutrality between England and France. The Jersey way of life involved agriculture, fishing, shipbuilding, and production of woollen goods until nineteenth-century improvements in transport links brought tourism to the Island.

Jersey was occupied by Germany from 1 July, 1940, and was held until 9 May, 1945.

Politics Jersey's legislature is the States of Jersey. It includes fifty-three Elections in Jersey members: twelve senators (elected for six-year terms), twelve Constable#Channel Islands (heads of parishes elected for three-year terms), twenty-nine Chamber of Deputies (elected for three-year terms); the Bailiff and the Deputy Bailiff (appointed to preside over the assembly and having a casting vote in favour of the status quo when presiding); and three non-voting members (the Dean of Jersey, the Attorney General, and the Solicitor General) appointed by the Crown. Government departments are run by a cabinet of ministers under a Chief Minister of Jersey. The civil head of the Island is the Bailiff (Channel Islands).

All current States Members have been elected as independents. Formally constituted political parties are unfashionable, although groups of "like-minded members" act in concert.

The Jersey Democratic Alliance is the only party currently having States Members, although these were elected as independents. The Centre Party (Jersey) has committed to only proposing candidates for Senatorial elections, though members are free to, and have, stood for Deputy as independents. They would remain independent in the Chamber. Stuart Syvret is often reported to be of the Jersey Green Party. Green Islands Network

The legal system is based on Norman law (including the Clameur de haro), statute and English law; justice is administered by the Royal Court.

Elizabeth II of the United Kingdom's traditional title as head of state is that of Duke of Normandy, but she does not hold that title formally. She reigns by her position as Queen over a crown dependency. Her representative in the island is the Lieutenant Governor, who has but a token involvement in island politics. Since 2006, the incumbent Lieutenant Governor has been Lieutenant General Andrew Ridgway.

Parishes Administratively, Jersey is divided into twelve Parishes of Jerseyes. All have access to the sea and are named after the saints to whom their ancient parish churches are dedicated:



The parishes of Jersey are further divided into vingtaines (or, in St. Ouen, cueillettes), divisions which are historic and nowadays mostly used for purposes of local administration and electoral constituency.

The Constable (Connétable) is the head of each parish, elected at a public election for a three year term to run the parish and to represent the municipality in the States. The Procureur du Bien Public (two in each parish) is the legal and financial representative of the parish, (elected at a public election since 2003 in accordance with the Public Elections (Amendment) (Jersey) Law 2003; formerly an Assembly of Electors of each parish elected the Procureurs in accordance with the Loi (1804) au sujet des assemblées paroissiales). A Procureur du Bien Public is elected for a mandate of three years as a public trustee for the funds and property of the parish and to be empowered to pass contract on behalf of the parish if so authorised by a Parish Assembly.

Centeniers are elected at a public election within each parish for a term of three years to undertake policing within the parish. The Centenier is the only officer authorised to charge and bail offenders. Formerly, the senior Centenier of each parish (known as the Chef de Police) deputised for the Constable in the States of Jersey when the Constable was unable to attend a sitting of the States. This function has now been abolished.

International relations Although diplomatic representation is reserved to the Crown, Jersey negotiates directly with foreign governments on matters within the competence of the States of Jersey. Jersey maintains a permanent non-diplomatic representation in Caen, the Bureau de Jersey, and a branch office in Rennes. A similar office, the Maison de Normandie, in St. Helier represents the Conseil général of Manche and the Conseil régional of Basse-Normandie and hosts the Consulate of France.

Jersey is a member of the British-Irish Council, the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association and the Assemblée parlementaire de la Francophonie. Jersey is aiming to become a full member of the Commonwealth of Nations in its own right.Jersey Evening Post, 23 September 2006

Dicey and Morris (p26)*Dicey & Morris. (1993) The Conflict of Laws 12th edition. London: Sweet & Maxwell Ltd. (pp26/30) ISBN 0-420-48280-6 list the separate States comprising the British Islands: "England, Scotland, Northern Ireland, the Isle of Man, Jersey, Guernsey, Alderney, and Sark. . . is a separate country in the sense of the conflict of laws, though not one of them is a State known to public international law."

In 2007, the Chief Minister and the UK Lord Chancellor signed an agreement Jersey and UK agree framework for developing Jersey’s international identity which established a framework for the development of the international identity of Jersey. The agreement stated that:

In a survey of 700 people carried out by Channel Television in the summer of 2000, 68% supported independence from the United Kingdom. Channel Isles. Senator (now Deputy) Paul le Claire lodged a projet calling for Jersey's independence shortly thereafter. Subsequently, the Jersey Law Review published an editorial The Sword of Damocles, Jersey Law Review, Volume 6, Issue 3, October 2002 and articles touching on the possibility of full independence. "Jersey and the United Kingdom: a choice of destiny", Jersey Law Review, Volume 8, Issue 3, October 2004. In 2007 the Chief Minister was reportedJersey Evening Post 21 April 2007 as saying that Jersey had contingency plans in case independence were to be forced upon the Island or if Jersey wanted to move towards independence at a later date.

On 20 June 2007, Jersey signed an agreementhttp://www.gov.je/ChiefMinister/International+Finance/NetherlandsandJerseysigntaxagreement.htm regarding the exchange of information relating to tax matters. This was reportedJersey Evening Post, 22 June 2007 as the bailiwick's first tax treaty with a European state as a state in its own right (and the second after a similar agreement with the United States in 2002).

The Federal Court of Justice of Germany ruled on 1 July 2002 (case: II ZR 380/00), that under German law, for the purposes of § 110 of the German Civil Procedures Act (ZPO), Jersey is to be deemed to be part of the United Kingdom and of the European Union as well. The European Union classes Jersey as a "special territory". It is part of the EU customs zone.

Geography Jersey is an island measuring 118.2 square kilometres (65,569 vergée / 46 Mile), including reclaimed land and intertidal zone. It lies in the English Channel, approximately 22.5 kilometres (12 nautical mile) from the Cotentin Peninsula in Normandy, France, and approximately 161 kilometres (100 mi) south of Great Britain.As of October 15 2006, the States of Jersey indicates that the island is situated "only 22 km off the north-west coast of France and 140 km south of England". It is the largest and southernmost of the Channel Islands.

The climate is temperate with mild winters and cool summers, it also averages the most sunshine per year in the British Isles. The terrain consists of a plateau sloping from long sandy bays in the south to rugged cliffs in the north. The plateau is cut by valleys running generally north-south.

Economy Thanks to specialisation in a few high return sectors, at purchasing power parity Jersey has very high economic output per capita, substantially ahead of all of the world's large developed economies. The CIA World Factbook estimate of Jersey's GDP per capita for 2005 is US$57,000, which was beaten only by two other small states with similar economic characteristics, Bermuda and Luxembourg. Jersey's economy is based on financial services, tourism, electronic commerce and agriculture; financial services contribute approximately sixty percent of the Island's economy, and the Island is recognised as one of the Offshore Financial Centre#List of main offshore financial centres.

In June 2005 the States introduced the Competition (Jersey) Law 2005 http://www.jcra.je/pdf/051101%20Competition-Jersey-Law--2005.pdf in order to regulate competition and stimulate economic growth. This competition law was based on that of other jurisdictions.

Aside from its banking and finance underpinnings Jersey also depends on tourism. In 2006 there were 729,000 visitors (down 3% on the previous year) but total visitor spending rose 1% to £222mJersey Tourism Annual Report, 2006. Duty-free goods are available for purchase on travel to and from the Island.

Major agricultural products are potatoes and dairy produce. The source of milk is Jersey cattle, a small breed of cow that has also been acknowledged (though not widely so) for the quality of its meat. Small-scale organic beef production has been reintroduced in an effort to diversify the industry.

Farmers and growers often sell surplus food and flowers in boxes on the roadside, relying on the honesty of those who pass to drop the correct change into the money box and take what they want. In the 21st century diversification of agriculture and amendments in planning strategy have led to farm shops replacing many of the roadside stalls.

On February 18 2005, Jersey was granted Fairtrade Town status.

Taxation Until the twentieth century, the States relied on indirect taxation to finance the administration of Jersey. The levying of impôts (duties) was in the hands of the Assembly of Governor, Bailiff and Jurats until 1921 when that body's tax raising powers were transferred to the Assembly of the States, leaving the Assembly of Governor, Bailiff and Jurats to serve simply as licensing bench for the sale of alcohol (this fiscal reform also stripped the Lieutenant-Governor of most of his effective remaining administrative functions). The Income Tax Law of 1928 introducing income tax was the first law drafted entirely in English. Income tax has been levied at a Flat tax of 20% for decades.

As VAT has not been levied in the Island, luxury goods have often been cheaper than in the UK or in France, providing an incentive for tourism from neighbouring countries. The absence of Value added tax has also led to the growth of the fulfilment industry, whereby low-value luxury items, such as videos, lingerie and contact lenses are exported to the UK, avoiding VAT on arrival and thus undercutting UK prices on the same products. In 2005, the States of Jersey announced limits on licences granted to non-resident companies trading in this way.

On 13 May 2005, the States of Jersey approved the introduction of a goods and services tax, scheduled for 2008.March 8 2005 Proposition P44/2005: Fiscal Strategy

Currency at a bank which dispensed a choice of Bank of England or Jersey banknotes. Since the intervention of the Treasurer of the States in 2005, cash machines generally (with the exception of those at the Airport and Elizabeth Harbour) no longer dispense English notes.Jersey issues its own Jersey pound which circulate with UK coinage, Bank of England notes, British banknotes#Scotland and Guernsey pound within the Island.

Coinage Designs on the reverse of Coins of the Jersey pound:

Pound coins are issued, but are much less widely used than pound notes. Designs on the reverse of Jersey pound coins include historic ships built in Jersey and a series of the twelve parishes' crests. The motto round the milled edge of Jersey pound coins is Insula Caesarea (Latin: "Island of Jersey"). Two pound coins are issued also, but in very small quantities.

Demographics was built in the thirteenth century to protect Jersey from French invasion.The Island is host to large number of people born outside Jersey; 47% of the population are not originally from the island.2001 Census

Thirty percent of the population is concentrated in Saint Helier, the island's only town. Of the roughly 88,000 people in Jersey, around two-fifths are of Jersey/Norman descent and two-fifths of British (English, Scottish, Welsh and Northern Irish) descent. The largest minority groups in the island, after the British, are Portuguese (around 7%, especially Madeiran), Irish and Polish. The French community is also always present. The people of Jersey are often called Islanders, or in individual terms Jerseyman or Jerseywoman. Some Jersey-born people consider themselves British and value the special relationship between the British Crown and the Island, whereas a large number of pure Jersey people consider themselves more European, leaning towards the French. However, Jersey-born's consider themselves Islanders and say they are from Jersey, Channel Islands as opposed to England or the United Kingdom.

Religion in Jersey has a complex history and much diversity. The established church is the Church of England. In the countryside, Methodism found its traditional stronghold. A minority of Roman Catholicism can also be found in Jersey, with two Catholic private schools (De La Salle College, Jersey in Saint Saviour being an all-boys Catholic school, and Beaulieu Convent School down the road in Saint Helier being an all-girls school where the sisters still have a presence in school life).

Jersey has an aging population. The main reason for this change particular to Jersey is the emigration of young people seeking opportunities the Island cannot provide.

For immigration and nationality purposes the United Kingdom generally treats Jersey as though it were part of the UK. However, Jersey is constitutionally entitled to restrict immigration by non-Jersey residents and maintains its own immigration and border controls. Population is currently controlled by restrictions on those without residential status purchasing or renting property in the Island. Although Jersey citizens are full British citizens, an endorsement restricting the right of establishment in European Union states other than the UK is placed in the Jersey passport of British citizens connected solely with the Channel Islands and Isle of Man. Those who have a parent or grandparent born in the United Kingdom, or who have lived in the United Kingdom for five years, are not subject to this restriction.

Censuses have been undertaken in Jersey since 1821, the most recent being the 2001 Census on March 11.

Culture Until the nineteenth century, indigenous Jèrriais — a variety (linguistics) of Norman language — was the language of the island, though French language was used for official business. During the twentieth century, however, an intense language shift took place and Jersey today is predominantly English-speaking. Jèrriais nonetheless survives; around 2,600 islanders (three per cent) are reckoned to be habitual speakers, and some 10,000 (12 percent) in all claim some knowledge of the language, particularly amongst the elderly in rural parishes. There have been efforts to revive Jèrriais in schools, and the highest number of declared Jèrriais speakers is in the capital.

A important rock face is called "Jeffreys Leap" after a criminal who jumped off the rock face and lived but when he jumped again, he was killed.

The dialects of Jèrriais differ in phonology and, to a lesser extent, lexis between parishes, with the most marked differences to be heard between those of the west and east. Many place names are in Jèrriais, and French and English place names are also to be found. Anglicisation of the toponymy increased apace with the migration of English people to the island.

Some Neolithic carvings are the earliest works of artistic character to be found in Jersey. Only fragmentary wall-paintings remain from the rich mediaeval artistic heritage, after the wholesale iconoclasm of the Calvinism reformation of the sixteenth century.

Printing arrived in Jersey only in the 1780s, but the Island supported a multitude of regular publications in French (and Jèrriais) and English throughout the nineteenth century, in which poetry, most usually topical and satirical, flourished (see Jèrriais literature).

John Everett Millais, Elinor Glyn, and Wace are among Jersey's artistic figures. Lillie Langtry, the Jersey Lily, is the Island's most widely recognised cultural icon. The famous French writer, Victor Hugo, lived in exile in Jersey from 1852 to 1855.

The Island is particularly famous for the Battle of Flowers, a carnival held annually since 1902.

Every year in Howard Davis park Jersey hosts its annual music festivals including Rock in the Park and its newly named Avanchi presents Jazz in July.

The Island's patron saint is Saint Helier.

Media hosts a weekly Jèrriais column accompanied by English-language précis.Jersey's only newspaper, the Jersey Evening Post, claims that it has an average issue readership of 73% of adults in Jersey and that over the course of a week 93 per cent of all adults will read a copy of the newspaper, it being the main printed source of local news and official notices. The newspaper features a weekly Jèrriais column accompanied by English-language précis. BBC Radio Jersey provides a radio service and Spotlight Channel Islands provides a joint television news services with Guernsey but with headquarters in Jersey. Channel Television is a regional ITV franchise shared with the Bailiwick of Guernsey but with its headquarters in Jersey. Channel 103 is a commercial radio station.

Cinema In 1909, T.J. West established the first cinema in the Royal Hall in St. Helier, which became known as West's Cinema in 1923 (demolished 1977). The Jersey Film Society was founded on 11 December 1947 at the Café Bleu, West's Cinema. The first talking picture, The Perfect Alibi, was shown on 30 December 1929 at the Picture House in St. Helier. The large Art Deco Forum Cinema was opened in 1935 — during the German Occupation this was used for German propaganda films. The Odeon Cinema (now the New Forum) was opened 2 June 1952.

Since 1997, Kevin Lewis (formerly of The Cine Centre and now of the New Forum) has arranged the Jersey Film Festival, a charity event showing the latest and also classic films outdoors in 35 mm film on a big screen. The 2006 festival was held in Howard Davis Park, St Helier on the 12 August-18 August 2006. In August 2006, plans were revealed to convert the former Odeon building into a department store while retaining the landmark architecture.

Food and drink Seafood has traditionally been important to the cuisine of Jersey: mussels (called moules locally), oysters, European lobster and crabs — especially Maja squinado — Abalone, and conger.

Jersey milk being very rich, cream and butter have played a large part in insular cooking. (See Channel Island milk) However there is no indigenous tradition of cheese making, contrary to the custom of mainland Normandy, but some cheese is produced commercially. Jersey fudge, mostly imported and made with milk from overseas Jersey cattle herds, is a popular food product with tourists. It is simply delicious.

Jersey Royal potatoes are the local variety of new potato, and the island is famous for its early crop of small potatoes from the south-facing côtils (steeply-sloping fields). They are eaten in a variety of ways, often simply boiled and served with butter.

Apples historically were an important crop. Bourdélots are apple dumplings, but the most typical speciality is black butter (lé nièr beurre), a dark spicy spread prepared from apples, cider and spices.

Among other traditional dishes are cabbage loaf, Jersey wonders (les mèrvelles), fliottes, bean crock (les pais au fou), nettle (ortchie) soup, vraic buns.

Cider used to be an important export. After decline and near-disappearance in the late twentieth century, apple production is being increased and promoted. Apple brandy is also produced, as is some wine.

Sport

Environment Three areas of land are protected for their ecological or geological interest as Sites of Special Interest (SSI): Les Landes, Les Blanches Banques and La Lande du Ouest. A large area of intertidal zone is designated as a Ramsar Convention.

Jersey is the home of Durrell Wildlife (formerly known as the Jersey Zoological Park) founded by the naturalist, zookeeper, and author Gerald Durrell.

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Footnotes and references

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External links

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{{Infobox Country or territory|native_name = Bailiwick of JerseyBailliage de Jersey|common_name = Jersey|image_flag = Flag of Jersey.svg|image_coat = Jersey coa.svg|image_map = LocationJersey.png|national_motto =|national_anthem = "God Save the Queen" (official)"Ma Normandie" ("My Normandy") (official for occasions when distinguishing anthem required)], French language|regional_languages = Jèrriais|latd=49 |latm=11.401 |latNS=N |longd=2 |longm=06.600 |longEW=W|largest_city = capital|government_type = [Parliamentary Democracy, Constitutional Monarchy, Crown Dependency|leader_name2 = Lt. Gen. [Andrew Ridgway|leader_name3 = Sir [Philip Bailhache|leader_name4 = Senator [Frank Walker (Jersey politician)|area_rank = 219th|area_magnitude = 1 E8|area_km2 = 116|area_sq_mi = 45 ]-->|population_density_rank = 12th2|GDP_PPP = £3.6 billion |GDP_PPP_rank = 167th|GDP_PPP_year = 2003|GDP_PPP_per_capita = £40,000 (2003 estimate)|GDP_PPP_per_capita_rank = 6th|sovereignty_type = Status|sovereignty_note = British crown dependency from German occupation|established_date1 = 1204|established_date2 = [9 May 19453|currency_code = GBP|country_code =|time_zone = [Greenwich Mean Time|utc_offset =|time_zone_DST =|utc_offset_DST = +1|cctld = .je|footnote1 = Jersey in Figures|footnote2 = Rank based on population density of Channel Islands including [Guernsey.] notes and coins (see Jersey pound).-->

The Bailiwick of Jersey (Jèrriais: Jèrri) is a British Crown dependency off the coast of Normandy, France. As well as the island of Jersey itself, the Bailiwick includes the nearly uninhabited islands of the Minquiers, Écréhous, the Pierres de Lecq and other rocks and reefs. Together with the Bailiwick of Guernsey it forms the grouping known as the Channel Islands. The defence of all these islands is the responsibility of the United Kingdom. However, Jersey is not part of the UK, nor the European Union, but is rather a separate possession of the Crown, comparable to the Isle of Man. Jersey belongs to the Common Travel Area.

History Jersey history is influenced by its strategic location between the northern coast of France and the southern coast of England; the island's recorded history extends over a thousand years.

Evidence of bronze-age and early iron-age settlements can be found in many locations around the island. While archaeological evidence of Ancient Rome influence has been found, in particular the coastal headland site at Le Pinacle, Les Landes, where remains of a primitive structure are attributed to Roman temple worship (fanum), evidence for regular Roman occupation has yet to be established.

Formerly under the control of Brittany and named Angia (also spelled Agna ), Jersey became subject to Viking influence in the ninth century, one of the "Norman Islands". The name for Jersey itself is sourced from a Viking heritage: the Norse suffix -ey for island can be found in many places around the northern European coasts. However, the significance of the first part of the island's toponym is unclear. Among theories are that it derives from jarth (Old Norse: "earth") or Earl, or perhaps a personal name, Geirr, to give "Geirr's Island"."Jersey", Concise Dictionary of World Place-Names. John Everett-Heath. Oxford University Press 2005. Oxford Reference Online. Oxford University Press. Jersey Library. 6 October 2006 Alternatively support for a Celtic origin can be made with reference to the Gaulish gar- (oak), ceton (forest). It is also said to be a corruption of the Latin Caesarea, the Roman name for the island, influenced by Old English suffix -ey for "island"; this is plausible if regional pronunciation of Latin implied that Caesarea was not pronounced but .

The island was eventually annexed to the Duchy of Normandy by William I of Normandy, Duke of Normandy in 933; his descendant, William I of England, Norman conquest in 1066, which led to the Duchy of Normandy and the kingdom of England being governed under one monarch. The Dukes of Normandy owned considerable estates on the island, and Norman families living on their estates founded many of the historical Norman-French Jersey family names. John I of England lost all his territories in mainland Normandy in 1204 to Philip II of France, but retained possession of Jersey, along with Guernsey and the other Channel Islands; the islands have been internally self-governing since.

Islanders became involved with the Newfoundland (island) fisheries in the late sixteenth century. In recognition for all the help given to him during his exile in Jersey in the 1640s, Charles II of England gave George Carteret, Bailiff and governor, a large grant of land in the American colonies, which he promptly named New Jersey, now part of the United States of America.

Trade laid the foundations of prosperity, aided by neutrality between England and France. The Jersey way of life involved agriculture, fishing, shipbuilding, and production of woollen goods until nineteenth-century improvements in transport links brought tourism to the Island.

Jersey was occupied by Germany from 1 July, 1940, and was held until 9 May, 1945.

Politics Jersey's legislature is the States of Jersey. It includes fifty-three Elections in Jersey members: twelve senators (elected for six-year terms), twelve Constable#Channel Islands (heads of parishes elected for three-year terms), twenty-nine Chamber of Deputies (elected for three-year terms); the Bailiff and the Deputy Bailiff (appointed to preside over the assembly and having a casting vote in favour of the status quo when presiding); and three non-voting members (the Dean of Jersey, the Attorney General, and the Solicitor General) appointed by the Crown. Government departments are run by a cabinet of ministers under a Chief Minister of Jersey. The civil head of the Island is the Bailiff (Channel Islands).

All current States Members have been elected as independents. Formally constituted political parties are unfashionable, although groups of "like-minded members" act in concert.

The Jersey Democratic Alliance is the only party currently having States Members, although these were elected as independents. The Centre Party (Jersey) has committed to only proposing candidates for Senatorial elections, though members are free to, and have, stood for Deputy as independents. They would remain independent in the Chamber. Stuart Syvret is often reported to be of the Jersey Green Party. Green Islands Network

The legal system is based on Norman law (including the Clameur de haro), statute and English law; justice is administered by the Royal Court.

Elizabeth II of the United Kingdom's traditional title as head of state is that of Duke of Normandy, but she does not hold that title formally. She reigns by her position as Queen over a crown dependency. Her representative in the island is the Lieutenant Governor, who has but a token involvement in island politics. Since 2006, the incumbent Lieutenant Governor has been Lieutenant General Andrew Ridgway.

Parishes Administratively, Jersey is divided into twelve Parishes of Jerseyes. All have access to the sea and are named after the saints to whom their ancient parish churches are dedicated:



The parishes of Jersey are further divided into vingtaines (or, in St. Ouen, cueillettes), divisions which are historic and nowadays mostly used for purposes of local administration and electoral constituency.

The Constable (Connétable) is the head of each parish, elected at a public election for a three year term to run the parish and to represent the municipality in the States. The Procureur du Bien Public (two in each parish) is the legal and financial representative of the parish, (elected at a public election since 2003 in accordance with the Public Elections (Amendment) (Jersey) Law 2003; formerly an Assembly of Electors of each parish elected the Procureurs in accordance with the Loi (1804) au sujet des assemblées paroissiales). A Procureur du Bien Public is elected for a mandate of three years as a public trustee for the funds and property of the parish and to be empowered to pass contract on behalf of the parish if so authorised by a Parish Assembly.

Centeniers are elected at a public election within each parish for a term of three years to undertake policing within the parish. The Centenier is the only officer authorised to charge and bail offenders. Formerly, the senior Centenier of each parish (known as the Chef de Police) deputised for the Constable in the States of Jersey when the Constable was unable to attend a sitting of the States. This function has now been abolished.

International relations Although diplomatic representation is reserved to the Crown, Jersey negotiates directly with foreign governments on matters within the competence of the States of Jersey. Jersey maintains a permanent non-diplomatic representation in Caen, the Bureau de Jersey, and a branch office in Rennes. A similar office, the Maison de Normandie, in St. Helier represents the Conseil général of Manche and the Conseil régional of Basse-Normandie and hosts the Consulate of France.

Jersey is a member of the British-Irish Council, the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association and the Assemblée parlementaire de la Francophonie. Jersey is aiming to become a full member of the Commonwealth of Nations in its own right.Jersey Evening Post, 23 September 2006

Dicey and Morris (p26)*Dicey & Morris. (1993) The Conflict of Laws 12th edition. London: Sweet & Maxwell Ltd. (pp26/30) ISBN 0-420-48280-6 list the separate States comprising the British Islands: "England, Scotland, Northern Ireland, the Isle of Man, Jersey, Guernsey, Alderney, and Sark. . . is a separate country in the sense of the conflict of laws, though not one of them is a State known to public international law."

In 2007, the Chief Minister and the UK Lord Chancellor signed an agreement Jersey and UK agree framework for developing Jersey’s international identity which established a framework for the development of the international identity of Jersey. The agreement stated that:

In a survey of 700 people carried out by Channel Television in the summer of 2000, 68% supported independence from the United Kingdom. Channel Isles. Senator (now Deputy) Paul le Claire lodged a projet calling for Jersey's independence shortly thereafter. Subsequently, the Jersey Law Review published an editorial The Sword of Damocles, Jersey Law Review, Volume 6, Issue 3, October 2002 and articles touching on the possibility of full independence. "Jersey and the United Kingdom: a choice of destiny", Jersey Law Review, Volume 8, Issue 3, October 2004. In 2007 the Chief Minister was reportedJersey Evening Post 21 April 2007 as saying that Jersey had contingency plans in case independence were to be forced upon the Island or if Jersey wanted to move towards independence at a later date.

On 20 June 2007, Jersey signed an agreementhttp://www.gov.je/ChiefMinister/International+Finance/NetherlandsandJerseysigntaxagreement.htm regarding the exchange of information relating to tax matters. This was reportedJersey Evening Post, 22 June 2007 as the bailiwick's first tax treaty with a European state as a state in its own right (and the second after a similar agreement with the United States in 2002).

The Federal Court of Justice of Germany ruled on 1 July 2002 (case: II ZR 380/00), that under German law, for the purposes of § 110 of the German Civil Procedures Act (ZPO), Jersey is to be deemed to be part of the United Kingdom and of the European Union as well. The European Union classes Jersey as a "special territory". It is part of the EU customs zone.

Geography Jersey is an island measuring 118.2 square kilometres (65,569 vergée / 46 Mile), including reclaimed land and intertidal zone. It lies in the English Channel, approximately 22.5 kilometres (12 nautical mile) from the Cotentin Peninsula in Normandy, France, and approximately 161 kilometres (100 mi) south of Great Britain.As of October 15 2006, the States of Jersey indicates that the island is situated "only 22 km off the north-west coast of France and 140 km south of England". It is the largest and southernmost of the Channel Islands.

The climate is temperate with mild winters and cool summers, it also averages the most sunshine per year in the British Isles. The terrain consists of a plateau sloping from long sandy bays in the south to rugged cliffs in the north. The plateau is cut by valleys running generally north-south.

Economy Thanks to specialisation in a few high return sectors, at purchasing power parity Jersey has very high economic output per capita, substantially ahead of all of the world's large developed economies. The CIA World Factbook estimate of Jersey's GDP per capita for 2005 is US$57,000, which was beaten only by two other small states with similar economic characteristics, Bermuda and Luxembourg. Jersey's economy is based on financial services, tourism, electronic commerce and agriculture; financial services contribute approximately sixty percent of the Island's economy, and the Island is recognised as one of the Offshore Financial Centre#List of main offshore financial centres.

In June 2005 the States introduced the Competition (Jersey) Law 2005 http://www.jcra.je/pdf/051101%20Competition-Jersey-Law--2005.pdf in order to regulate competition and stimulate economic growth. This competition law was based on that of other jurisdictions.

Aside from its banking and finance underpinnings Jersey also depends on tourism. In 2006 there were 729,000 visitors (down 3% on the previous year) but total visitor spending rose 1% to £222mJersey Tourism Annual Report, 2006. Duty-free goods are available for purchase on travel to and from the Island.

Major agricultural products are potatoes and dairy produce. The source of milk is Jersey cattle, a small breed of cow that has also been acknowledged (though not widely so) for the quality of its meat. Small-scale organic beef production has been reintroduced in an effort to diversify the industry.

Farmers and growers often sell surplus food and flowers in boxes on the roadside, relying on the honesty of those who pass to drop the correct change into the money box and take what they want. In the 21st century diversification of agriculture and amendments in planning strategy have led to farm shops replacing many of the roadside stalls.

On February 18 2005, Jersey was granted Fairtrade Town status.

Taxation Until the twentieth century, the States relied on indirect taxation to finance the administration of Jersey. The levying of impôts (duties) was in the hands of the Assembly of Governor, Bailiff and Jurats until 1921 when that body's tax raising powers were transferred to the Assembly of the States, leaving the Assembly of Governor, Bailiff and Jurats to serve simply as licensing bench for the sale of alcohol (this fiscal reform also stripped the Lieutenant-Governor of most of his effective remaining administrative functions). The Income Tax Law of 1928 introducing income tax was the first law drafted entirely in English. Income tax has been levied at a Flat tax of 20% for decades.

As VAT has not been levied in the Island, luxury goods have often been cheaper than in the UK or in France, providing an incentive for tourism from neighbouring countries. The absence of Value added tax has also led to the growth of the fulfilment industry, whereby low-value luxury items, such as videos, lingerie and contact lenses are exported to the UK, avoiding VAT on arrival and thus undercutting UK prices on the same products. In 2005, the States of Jersey announced limits on licences granted to non-resident companies trading in this way.

On 13 May 2005, the States of Jersey approved the introduction of a goods and services tax, scheduled for 2008.March 8 2005 Proposition P44/2005: Fiscal Strategy

Currency at a bank which dispensed a choice of Bank of England or Jersey banknotes. Since the intervention of the Treasurer of the States in 2005, cash machines generally (with the exception of those at the Airport and Elizabeth Harbour) no longer dispense English notes.Jersey issues its own Jersey pound which circulate with UK coinage, Bank of England notes, British banknotes#Scotland and Guernsey pound within the Island.

Coinage Designs on the reverse of Coins of the Jersey pound:

Pound coins are issued, but are much less widely used than pound notes. Designs on the reverse of Jersey pound coins include historic ships built in Jersey and a series of the twelve parishes' crests. The motto round the milled edge of Jersey pound coins is Insula Caesarea (Latin: "Island of Jersey"). Two pound coins are issued also, but in very small quantities.

Demographics was built in the thirteenth century to protect Jersey from French invasion.The Island is host to large number of people born outside Jersey; 47% of the population are not originally from the island.2001 Census

Thirty percent of the population is concentrated in Saint Helier, the island's only town. Of the roughly 88,000 people in Jersey, around two-fifths are of Jersey/Norman descent and two-fifths of British (English, Scottish, Welsh and Northern Irish) descent. The largest minority groups in the island, after the British, are Portuguese (around 7%, especially Madeiran), Irish and Polish. The French community is also always present. The people of Jersey are often called Islanders, or in individual terms Jerseyman or Jerseywoman. Some Jersey-born people consider themselves British and value the special relationship between the British Crown and the Island, whereas a large number of pure Jersey people consider themselves more European, leaning towards the French. However, Jersey-born's consider themselves Islanders and say they are from Jersey, Channel Islands as opposed to England or the United Kingdom.

Religion in Jersey has a complex history and much diversity. The established church is the Church of England. In the countryside, Methodism found its traditional stronghold. A minority of Roman Catholicism can also be found in Jersey, with two Catholic private schools (De La Salle College, Jersey in Saint Saviour being an all-boys Catholic school, and Beaulieu Convent School down the road in Saint Helier being an all-girls school where the sisters still have a presence in school life).

Jersey has an aging population. The main reason for this change particular to Jersey is the emigration of young people seeking opportunities the Island cannot provide.

For immigration and nationality purposes the United Kingdom generally treats Jersey as though it were part of the UK. However, Jersey is constitutionally entitled to restrict immigration by non-Jersey residents and maintains its own immigration and border controls. Population is currently controlled by restrictions on those without residential status purchasing or renting property in the Island. Although Jersey citizens are full British citizens, an endorsement restricting the right of establishment in European Union states other than the UK is placed in the Jersey passport of British citizens connected solely with the Channel Islands and Isle of Man. Those who have a parent or grandparent born in the United Kingdom, or who have lived in the United Kingdom for five years, are not subject to this restriction.

Censuses have been undertaken in Jersey since 1821, the most recent being the 2001 Census on March 11.

Culture Until the nineteenth century, indigenous Jèrriais — a variety (linguistics) of Norman language — was the language of the island, though French language was used for official business. During the twentieth century, however, an intense language shift took place and Jersey today is predominantly English-speaking. Jèrriais nonetheless survives; around 2,600 islanders (three per cent) are reckoned to be habitual speakers, and some 10,000 (12 percent) in all claim some knowledge of the language, particularly amongst the elderly in rural parishes. There have been efforts to revive Jèrriais in schools, and the highest number of declared Jèrriais speakers is in the capital.

A important rock face is called "Jeffreys Leap" after a criminal who jumped off the rock face and lived but when he jumped again, he was killed.

The dialects of Jèrriais differ in phonology and, to a lesser extent, lexis between parishes, with the most marked differences to be heard between those of the west and east. Many place names are in Jèrriais, and French and English place names are also to be found. Anglicisation of the toponymy increased apace with the migration of English people to the island.

Some Neolithic carvings are the earliest works of artistic character to be found in Jersey. Only fragmentary wall-paintings remain from the rich mediaeval artistic heritage, after the wholesale iconoclasm of the Calvinism reformation of the sixteenth century.

Printing arrived in Jersey only in the 1780s, but the Island supported a multitude of regular publications in French (and Jèrriais) and English throughout the nineteenth century, in which poetry, most usually topical and satirical, flourished (see Jèrriais literature).

John Everett Millais, Elinor Glyn, and Wace are among Jersey's artistic figures. Lillie Langtry, the Jersey Lily, is the Island's most widely recognised cultural icon. The famous French writer, Victor Hugo, lived in exile in Jersey from 1852 to 1855.

The Island is particularly famous for the Battle of Flowers, a carnival held annually since 1902.

Every year in Howard Davis park Jersey hosts its annual music festivals including Rock in the Park and its newly named Avanchi presents Jazz in July.

The Island's patron saint is Saint Helier.

Media hosts a weekly Jèrriais column accompanied by English-language précis.Jersey's only newspaper, the Jersey Evening Post, claims that it has an average issue readership of 73% of adults in Jersey and that over the course of a week 93 per cent of all adults will read a copy of the newspaper, it being the main printed source of local news and official notices. The newspaper features a weekly Jèrriais column accompanied by English-language précis. BBC Radio Jersey provides a radio service and Spotlight Channel Islands provides a joint television news services with Guernsey but with headquarters in Jersey. Channel Television is a regional ITV franchise shared with the Bailiwick of Guernsey but with its headquarters in Jersey. Channel 103 is a commercial radio station.

Cinema In 1909, T.J. West established the first cinema in the Royal Hall in St. Helier, which became known as West's Cinema in 1923 (demolished 1977). The Jersey Film Society was founded on 11 December 1947 at the Café Bleu, West's Cinema. The first talking picture, The Perfect Alibi, was shown on 30 December 1929 at the Picture House in St. Helier. The large Art Deco Forum Cinema was opened in 1935 — during the German Occupation this was used for German propaganda films. The Odeon Cinema (now the New Forum) was opened 2 June 1952.

Since 1997, Kevin Lewis (formerly of The Cine Centre and now of the New Forum) has arranged the Jersey Film Festival, a charity event showing the latest and also classic films outdoors in 35 mm film on a big screen. The 2006 festival was held in Howard Davis Park, St Helier on the 12 August-18 August 2006. In August 2006, plans were revealed to convert the former Odeon building into a department store while retaining the landmark architecture.

Food and drink Seafood has traditionally been important to the cuisine of Jersey: mussels (called moules locally), oysters, European lobster and crabs — especially Maja squinado — Abalone, and conger.

Jersey milk being very rich, cream and butter have played a large part in insular cooking. (See Channel Island milk) However there is no indigenous tradition of cheese making, contrary to the custom of mainland Normandy, but some cheese is produced commercially. Jersey fudge, mostly imported and made with milk from overseas Jersey cattle herds, is a popular food product with tourists. It is simply delicious.

Jersey Royal potatoes are the local variety of new potato, and the island is famous for its early crop of small potatoes from the south-facing côtils (steeply-sloping fields). They are eaten in a variety of ways, often simply boiled and served with butter.

Apples historically were an important crop. Bourdélots are apple dumplings, but the most typical speciality is black butter (lé nièr beurre), a dark spicy spread prepared from apples, cider and spices.

Among other traditional dishes are cabbage loaf, Jersey wonders (les mèrvelles), fliottes, bean crock (les pais au fou), nettle (ortchie) soup, vraic buns.

Cider used to be an important export. After decline and near-disappearance in the late twentieth century, apple production is being increased and promoted. Apple brandy is also produced, as is some wine.

Sport

Environment Three areas of land are protected for their ecological or geological interest as Sites of Special Interest (SSI): Les Landes, Les Blanches Banques and La Lande du Ouest. A large area of intertidal zone is designated as a Ramsar Convention.

Jersey is the home of Durrell Wildlife (formerly known as the Jersey Zoological Park) founded by the naturalist, zookeeper, and author Gerald Durrell.

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Footnotes and references

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External links

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