The latest attempt to replace the Bailiff in Jersey's parliament with an elected speaker has been abandoned.

Constable Andy Jehan has withdrawn his proposal, which was due to be debated in the States Assembly next week.

Last month, the Constable of St John revealed his intention to bring a vote on politicians appointing a Speaker and Deputy Speaker in a year's time, when the current Bailiff Sir Tim Le Cocq retires.

He said it already had the backing of 16 other States Members.

However, the Constable has accepted that it will not be enough to get it over the line, and says he does not want to waste States Assembly time.

" It has become apparent this week that, whilst a majority of States Members recognise that a move to an elected or appointed Speaker is an appropriate change, a number of Members regrettably feel unable to vote according to their conscience on this occasion.

"I do not wish to unnecessarily take up the time of the Assembly when the outcome of the vote is effectively already known.

"Whilst I do not think that having an unelected and unaccountable Speaker is sustainable in a modern democracy, I remain of the opinion that the Bailiff’s role as Civic Head is an important part of our island’s history and constitution, and that any changes should be limited to enhancing democracy, accountability, and efficiency within the States Assembly."

The Constable says he expects the topic will be back on the agenda before long.

Former Bailiff Sir Philip Bailhache has said the role should not be altered unless there is backing in a public referendum.

There have been multiple attempts to remove the Bailiff as President of the States over the past two decades.

The separation of powers between the legislature and judiciary has long been a contentious issue in Jersey, with successive reviews concluding the presidency of the Assembly be given to an elected or appointed member.

It was a recommendation of the Clothier report, compiled almost 25 year ago and the 2010 Carswell review.