Facts about Jersey Population | 91,533 (July 2008 est.) | Capital | Saint Helier | Time zone | UTC 0 (5 hours ahead of Washington, DC during Standard Time)
daylight saving time: +1hr, begin | Location |
Western Europe, island in the English Channel, northwest of France
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General info about Jersey
Jersey and the other Channel Islands represent the last remnants of the medieval Dukedom of Normandy that held sway in both France and England. These islands were the only British soil occupied by German troops in World War II. Jersey is a British crown dependency but is not part of the UK. However, the UK Government is constitutionally responsible for its defense and international representation.
Languages spoken English 94.5% (official), Portuguese 4.6%, other 0.9% (2001 census) Ethnic division Jersey 51.1%, Britons 34.8%, Irish, French, and other white 6.6%, Portuguese/Madeiran 6.4%, other 1.1% (2001 census) HIV/AIDS prevalence rate NA Climate temperate; mild winters and cool summers Resources arable land Economy Jersey's economy is based on international financial services, agriculture, and tourism. In 2005 the finance sector accounted for about 50% of the island's output. Potatoes, cauliflower, tomatoes, and especially flowers are important export crops, shipped mostly to the UK. The Jersey breed of dairy cattle is known worldwide and represents an important export income earner. Milk products go to the UK and other EU countries. Tourism accounts for one-quarter of GDP. In recent years, the government has encouraged light industry to locate in Jersey, with the result that an electronics industry has developed alongside the traditional manufacturing of knitwear. All raw material and energy requirements are imported, as well as a large share of Jersey's food needs. Light taxes and death duties make the island a popular tax haven. Living standards come close to those of the UK. Environment NA Cities in Jersey
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