The Role of the Lieutenant-Governor in the Bailiwick of Guernsey

The Bailiwick of Guernsey is one of three Crown Dependencies, all of which are self-governing and personal possessions of the Sovereign. Of the three, including Jersey and the Isle of Man, only Guernsey has dependencies itself. Alderney and Sark being separate jurisdictions within the Bailiwick of Guernsey.   

The role of the Lieutenant-Governor is to undertake, on behalf of the Sovereign, many of the functions normally associated with the Head of State in a larger jurisdiction

Potential candidates for the role apply for the job as advertised and are interviewed by a panel of senior Bailiwick representatives from the three jurisdictions and their recommendation is passed to His Majesty The King for final Approval. The Lieutenant-Governor is appointed by Royal Warrant, normally for a term of five years.

The Lieutenant-Governor's responsibilities include:

• Representing The King on ceremonial occasions
• Being an impartial adviser to The King on Bailiwick matters
• Attending the meetings at the States of Guernsey, the States of Alderney, and Chief Pleas of Sark
• Hosting Royal, ambassadorial and VIP visits and occasions in conjunction with the Islands' authorities
• Principal point of liaison between the Governments of Guernsey and the United Kingdom
• Promoting and playing an active part in the social and charitable affairs of the Bailiwick and to promote community activity in these areas
• Executive functions relating to the control of immigration, deportation,  naturalisation, and the issuing of passports
• Licensing authority for the provision of shipping services between Sark, Alderney, and Guernsey
• Communication recommendations for certain Crown appointments from the Insular and Church authorities to the Lord Chancellor and Secretary of State for Justice
• Providing advice and support to the Bailiwick authorities in dealing with Civil Emergencies
• Making recommendations for the award of State Honours to Guernsey, Alderney, and Sark residents
• Working with the insular authorities to help promote the interests and profiles of the Bailiwick's Islands 
• Commander-in-Chief of British Armed Forces in the Bailiwick