STATEMENT BY HON. JULIAN WILLOCK,

SPEAKER OF THE HOUSE OF ASSEMBLY

AT THE CONTINUATION OF THE SECOND SITTING OF THE FOURTH SESSION

OF THE FOURTH HOUSE OF ASSEMBLY

TUESDAY, 3RD MAY 2022

This morning May 3, 2022, at 8:05 AM, I received a telephone call from the acting Premier Dr. the Honourable Natalio D. Wheatley.  

He advised me that a majority of Members agreed that I should demit office.     

I asked the Acting Premier, during the telephone conversation, if he was aware that I did anything wrong, and he said NO!  I asked him if he had any knowledge that I was implicated in the Commission of Inquiry’s report in any way, and he said NO!   I asked the Acting Premier, to his knowledge, if I was under any active investigation on any matter of governance or misconduct, while in office, he said NO!  

So, I was surprised by his proposal and message.   I asked him to at least give me until the next day to consider my resignation, so I can clear my office, advise my family, and speak to my Attorneys.  

I will not diverge the details of other parts of our conversation, on any other Member of the House of Assembly.    

For the past three years, I have conducted myself with dignity, strengthened the institution of the House of Assembly, and brought much to the House both locally, regionally, and internationally with much respect from my other overseas colleagues.  

Along with the Committee, we were able to re-launch the Virgin Islands Youth Parliament, and everyone was impressed with the outcome.    

We were able to ensure that the BVI at any regional or international Commonwealth Parliamentary Association meetings, sits as its own independent chapter.  

I can go on and on about the many accomplishments that were achieved via the different House committees, and I, in particular, recognise the Deputy Speaker and the Clerk for their unwavering support.    

I have sought legal advice on this matter and what I have agreed to is my resignation as Speaker.  Both Honourable Members and the public will hear more from me on this matter.