The Premier, Dr. the Honourable D. Orlando Smith, OBE highlighted the importance of strong links with the UK Parliament during his recent visit to London for the Joint Ministerial Council.

At a lunch hosted by former Overseas Territories Minister, Sir Henry Bellingham MP and Lindsay Hoyle MP, Deputy Speaker of the House of Commons, the Premier was able to brief the MPs on the British Virgin Islands.  During the lunch, Premier gave an overview of the BVI economy and society and in particular the contribution that tourism and financial services make to the economy. 

The Premier said, “There has always been a strong relationship between the UK Parliament and the BVI and I was happy to have the opportunity to reinforce those links. On financial services in particular, it is too easy for misconceptions to arise especially when only one particular perspective is articulated.” 

Premier Smith also discussed challenges faced by the global financial system and the role the BVI plays within international standard setting bodies to help ensure that both the system and the regulatory framework that governs it is fit for purpose.

Seven Parliamentarians attended the lunch including former Overseas Territories Minister, James Duddridge MP; Mark Field MP, Member of Parliament for Cities of London and Westminster; Nigel Mills MP, Chair of the Anti-Corruption Group; Nigel Evans MP, Member of the Select Committee on International Trade; and Lord Robothan. 

Photograph attached

Photo and caption: BVI All Party Parliamentary Group Lunch Co-Hosted by the Premier and Sir Henry Bellingham (Photo provided)