Island of Sark embraces democracy after 400 years

Four and a half centuries of feudalism were brought to an end yesterday when the Privy Council approved changes to the laws governing Sark, in the Channel Islands, which will introduce universal suffrage to the island.

The Privy Council’s decision enables Sark’s judiciary and parliament to be significantly modernised.

Sark, which lies 80 miles off the south coast of England (Map of Sark), has been governed by a mix of landowners and elected people’s deputies since it was settled in the 1600s.

The island’s parliament, the Chief Pleas, has already approved new laws to introduce a 28-member elected chamber after a recent referendum in which islanders voted for democracy. These proposals were formally approved by the Privy Council.

Related Internet Links

• Official Website of the Government of Sark

The new set-up is intended to replace the system of 40 landowners or tenants and 12 elected deputies.

The move comes after pressure was put on Sark to change its feudal system to comply with European human rights laws and other international obligations.

* The self-sufficient, car-free island is three miles long and 1½ miles wide (5by 2.4km). The only forms of transport permitted are horse-drawn vehicles,bicycles, tractors and battery-powered buggies.