Although Guernsey is British, its history and constitution mean that it is not part of the United Kingdom or the European Union. HM Queen Elizabeth II, represented locally by the Lieutenant-Governor John Coward since 1994. Bailiff de Vic Carey since 1999. Only foreign affairs and defence are handled by the UK, although there are arrangements by which Guernsey laws are approved by the crown. English is the official language.
Norman patois is spoken in some parishes.
Church of England, Baptist, Congregational and Methodist. 240 volts AC, 50Hz. Only Guernsey stamps will be accepted on outgoing mail. The main post office is at Smith Street, St Peter Port. Post boxes are painted blue.