Premier and Minister of Finance Dr. the Honourable Natalio D. Wheatley will lead a delegation to London, United Kingdom, from 14 – 22 January.

During his press briefing statement on 6 January 2023, Premier Wheatley announced that he would travel to the UK to advance the economic, political, and environmental interests of the Virgin Islands.

“On the agenda are financial services, investment, and environmental partnerships,” the Premier said, adding, “I will also meet with our students and citizens in the United Kingdom to hear their concerns and ideas.”

The visit is his first official opportunity to meet Minister for the Overseas Territories, Lord Goldsmith.  Additionally, he will engage the BVI All Party Parliamentary Group and other UK parliamentarians who have an interest in the Virgin Islands.

Premier Wheatley further stated, “The occasion of my visit will also be an opportunity to celebrate the 20th anniversary of the BVI London Office that was the successful vision of the late Premier and Minister of Finance, the Honourable Ralph T. O’Neal, OBE.”

The Premier will update the public on the outcome of the visit upon his return.

During this time, Deputy Premier Honourable Kye M. Rymer is appointed to act as Premier.

Honourable Rymer’s appointment is in accordance with Section 55 (1) of the Virgin Islands Constitution Order, 2007 which states, “If the Premier is expected to be absent from the Virgin Islands for more than forty-eight hours, the Governor shall authorise the Deputy Premier to perform the functions of the office of Premier; and the Governor shall revoke this authority on the return to the Virgin Islands of the Premier.”

Members of the delegation include Financial Secretary Mr. Jeremiah Frett, Permanent Secretary in the Premier’s Office Mrs. Carolyn Stoutt Igwe, Assistant Secretary for External Affairs in the International Affairs Secretariat Ms. Dwynel Davies, and other officials from the BVI International Tax Authority, BVI Finance and the Financial Services Commission.

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NOTES TO EDITOR(S): Photograph is attached

Premier and Minister of Finance Dr. the Honourable Natalio D. Wheatley