Premier Urges UK to Revoke Order in Council Suspending BVI Constitution

Premier Dr. Hon. Natalio D. Wheatley has called on the United Kingdom to withdraw its Order in Council, which grants the power to suspend the British Virgin Islands’ constitution, during his address to the United Nations (UN) Fourth Committee on Special Political and Decolonisation at the 79th Session of the General Assembly in New York. Premier Wheatley stated that the order is no longer necessary, as governance reforms in the Territory are nearing completion.

“We maintain that the Order in Council is undemocratic, unnecessary, and should be lifted. Its removal would not only improve the UK-BVI relationship but also enhance the UK’s standing regionally and internationally,” Premier Wheatley said.

He also noted that he looked forward to welcoming the new UK Minister for the Overseas Territories, Hon. Stephen Doughty, to the British Virgin Islands in November for further discussions. The Premier expressed optimism that these talks would help forge a modern partnership between the UK and the BVI, focusing on self-determination, sustainable development, climate resilience, economic stability, security, and democracy.

Additionally, Premier Wheatley lauded the successful visit by the UN Special Committee on Decolonisation (C-24), which conducted a fact-finding mission in the Territory from 26-27 August to assess progress on decolonisation. He thanked the C-24, the Caribbean Community (CARICOM), the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS), and the UK’s Permanent Mission to the UN for their roles in ensuring the visit took place.

While at the UN, Premier Wheatley met with Her Excellency Ambassador Menissa Rambally, Chair of the C-24 and Permanent Representative of Saint Lucia to the UN. Ambassador Rambally reaffirmed the C-24’s commitment to supporting the will of the people of the British Virgin Islands, as mandated by the committee.

Premier Wheatley delivered his statement on 7 October, accompanied by Special Envoy Mr. Benito Wheatley. The general debate of the Fourth Committee concluded on 16 October.