St Lawrence

Good evening Ladies and Gentlemen

1. Difficult issues, a new system of government – this election was always going to be – quite understandably - a higher test for me.
   
   
2. Over the last 3 years I have discharged the duties as the minister responsible for the economy.
   
   
3. As of tonight, the world’s financial markets really are in turmoil and– it is clearer than ever – the world is on its way to deep recession.
   
   
4. Since the start of this campaign - some of the candidates have challenged the fact - that I have been growing our economy.
   
   
5. Nurturing it, diversifying it and strengthening it.
   
   
6. I passionately believe that a strong economy is essential to  providing jobs, public services and social care.
   
   
7. In the last few days I have been assessing the consequence of the global financial crisis.
   
   
8. The first thing I want to say is - the approach we have taken is very different from other places.
   
   
9. In very simple terms the turmoil is very much about credit.
   
   
10. Our finance industry is about deposits.
    
    
11. Jersey is a liquidity centre – and – in fact one of the world’s best.
    
    
12. We have been extremely selective in the type of business and particularly which banks we have licensed.
    
    
13. 90% of local deposits are held with the world’s strongest banks.
    
    
14. This is hugely significant.
    
    
15. That’s why today, we were able to assure local residents that their money is safe.
    
    
16. Ladies and Gentlemen - of course we are not going to be unaffected by this global turmoil but we are uniquely placed to weather the storms ahead.
    
    
17. This has not happened by accident.....
    
    
18. In 8 days time you will choose 6 of us to lead the island through - what are going to be more challenging times.
    
    
19. I am not one of those politicians that you only hear from at election time and 3 minutes is not nearly enough to explain my policies and my vision for the future.
    
    
20. I hope that you will have the opportunity of reading my detailed manifesto at ozouf.je  
    
    
21. I have taken time this evening to focus on economic matters rather than my usual hustings speech.
    
    
22. Ladies and Gentlemen – you may not agree with every decision that I have taken in the last 6 years, but if you want a candidate who works hard for Jersey, has a proven track record of delivery and does not shirk responsibility.
    
    
23. Please help me to steer the island
    
    
24. I care but also have the experience and ability to help govern Jersey through the next 6 years.
    
    
25. I hope you will consider me for one of your votes.