‘Disappearing’ WhatsApp messages can’t be released, but Niles stands by GST borrowing argument
A WhatsApp message at the centre of a political row cannot be released because it was sent in a group with ‘disappearing’ messages turned on, Express understands.
The message – sent by Deputy Andrew Niles – kicked off a row about whether GST is needed to maintain Guernsey’s S&P credit rating.
Several deputies referenced the message during last month’s tax debate, with Deputy Andy Sloan telling the Assembly that Deputy Niles had admitted in a WhatsApp group that “part of the reason for GST is so we can borrow more money”.
While Deputy Niles didn’t dispute the existence of WhatsApp messages in the chamber, he later publicly dismissed the idea that the GST package was being introduced to increase borrowing.
However, the WhatsApp message itself can no longer be produced, because it was posted in a chat where disappearing messages had been turned on.
Despite the row, Deputy Niles insisted his position had not changed.
“A tax reform package that includes GST will allow us to balance our books and demonstrate fiscal discipline,” he told Express.
He said that would put Guernsey in “the best possible position to borrow” if funding was needed for infrastructure and housing projects.
The row is the latest skirmish in a wider battle over transparency, and focusses on whether deputies and the public were given a full and accurate picture of S&P’s position during the tax reform debate.
‘My position has been consistent’
Express asked Deputy Niles a series of questions, including whether the WhatsApp message discussed the relationship between GST and borrowing, whether Deputy Sloan’s interpretation was accurate, and whether he would be willing to release the messages in full so the public could judge the context for themselves.
Deputy Niles said: “Thank you for your questions. Rather than answer each one, I’d like to address them in the whole.
“My position has been consistent, in every conversation, chat, speech and public statement – as I believe it was in the discussion you refer to.
“A tax reform package that includes GST will allow us to balance our books and demonstrate fiscal discipline.
“That, in turn, will allow us to invest in infrastructure and build the homes we need, and if needed to achieve that, be in the best possible position to borrow.
