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Location
English Channel, off the northern coast of France.
Time
GMT (GMT + 1 from last Sunday in March to Saturday before last Sunday in October).
Area
116 sq km (45 sq miles).
Population
91,321 (2007 estimate).
Population Density
787 per sq km.
Capital
St Helier. Population: 29,000 (UN 2003).
Geography
Jersey is the largest of the Channel Islands, lying approximately 160km (100 miles) south of the coast of England and 23km (14 miles) from the coast of Normandy in France. The island is roughly 14.5km (9 miles) by 8km (5 miles). It slopes from north to south and often appears to visitors to be largely composed of pink granite. Jersey has over 20 bays, many small harbours and magnificent beaches bathed by the warm waters of the Gulf Stream.
Government
Dependency of the British Crown.
Head of State
Queen Elizabeth II, represented locally by the Lieutenant-Governor Andrew Ridgeway since 2006.
Head of Government
Chief Minister Senator Frank Walker since 2005.
Recent History
As a direct dependency of the British crown, Jersey has its own legislative and taxation systems, which are an intriguing blend of Norman and English. Jersey has jealously guarded its independence since the war, manifested in strict criteria governing rights of residency and a marked reluctance to accept controls over its thriving financial services industry.
In recent years, however, under pressure from the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development, the Jersey authorities have been forced to cede some controls over the industry. The island's antique political system has also come under scrutiny. A process of public consultation began in November 2003, which intended to produce a more democratic system, including a blueprint for a wider franchise and a wholly elected government. Senator Frank Walker was elected as Jersey's first Chief Minister in December 2005.
In recent years, however, under pressure from the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development, the Jersey authorities have been forced to cede some controls over the industry. The island's antique political system has also come under scrutiny. A process of public consultation began in November 2003, which intended to produce a more democratic system, including a blueprint for a wider franchise and a wholly elected government. Senator Frank Walker was elected as Jersey's first Chief Minister in December 2005.
Language
English is the official language. A dialect of Norman-French is still spoken by some people. French is still used in courts.
Religion
Each of Jersey’s parishes has its own Anglican church, but some parishes, particularly St Helier, have been subdivided to provide more than one centre for Church of England worship. There are 12 Roman Catholic and 18 Methodist churches, as well as a wide range of free churches.
Electricity
240 volts AC, 50Hz.
Social Conventions
Similar to the UK, with French influences (see the United Kingdom section).
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