There were heated exchanges in Jersey's States this morning as Senator Stuart Syvret clashed with Chief Minister Terry Le Sueur.The argument was over comments made by Senator Syvret late yesterday during a debate on the role of the Communications Unit.
Senator Syvret had accused the States department of spin, and falsifying information relating to the Haut de la Garenne inquiry.
He was asked to provide evidence of his claims overnight. Senator Syvret emailed documents to all States Members and says he has further evidence off-island.
This morning Senator Le Sueur said none of the documents constituted evidence of any sort and called on Senator Syvret to withdraw the comments. He said a slur had been cast against civil servants who were unable to defend themselves in the House.
Senator Syvret angrily refused to withdraw the allegations and the Bailiff had to step in to calm things down. He has suggested that if Policy and Procedures - the committee that manages States members conduct - felt Senator Syvret had abused his position of political privilege, then it was up to them to decide if they should investigate.
The amendment to the Business Plan brought by Deputy Trevor Pitman to disband the Communications Department was subsequently lost. He had argued the £200,000 annual budget could be spent better elsewhere.
Heated exchanges in States