STATEMENT FROM THE OFFICE OF THE GOVERNOR
HIS EXCELLENCY, MR. JOHN S. DUNCAN, OBE
ON THE PRIVY COUNCIL’S DECISION
APPROVING THE AMENDMENT TO THE VIRGIN ISLANDS CONSTITUTION TO CREATE JUNIOR MINISTER POSTS   

Following the request from the Government of the Virgin Islands to amend the Constitution to allow for the creation of two junior Minister posts, the Governor   conveyed a formal request to the appropriate authorities in the United Kingdom.

The Governor’s Office is pleased to announce that the Virgin Islands Constitution (Amendment) Order, 2015 (the ‘Order’) has been approved by the Privy Council. It has been laid before the United Kingdom Parliament and will come into force on 5 November, 2015.

Consequently, from 5 November the Governor will be able to appoint, on the advice of the Premier, two Junior Ministers from among the elected members of the House of Assembly. The new Minsters will not be members of Cabinet, but will assist in the performance of Ministerial functions relating to economic development. The exact portfolios will be agreed on the recommendation of the Premier.