By Alistair Smout — Reuters, Wednesday 8 June 2022
LONDON (Reuters) — Britain on Wednesday said it had agreed a comprehensive plan to reform the governance of The British Virgin Islands without direct rule from London at this stage, after an official report found systemic dishonesty in the British overseas territory. While an inquiry in April had recommended The BVI should have its constitution suspended, its elected government dissolved, and effectively be ruled from London, Britain said it wanted to give a new government a chance to implement reforms. However, Britain said it retained the option of a governor-led administration — effectively suspending The BVI’s constitution and handing rule to the British government — if there was not enough progress in improving governance over a two-year plan.
Britain’s foreign minister Liz Truss said: “I believe, in the first instance, the new government should have an opportunity to demonstrate their commitment to reform through the implementation of the 48 inquiry recommendations. If it becomes clear that this approach is not delivering the reform the people of the BVI want and deserve, we will take action.” New premier Natalio Wheatley gave a news conference alongside governor John Rankin and said Wednesday’s announcement was “in everyone’s best interests” as it allowed “democracy to continue in The Virgin Islands.” The scandal over the governance of the territory saw the removal of ex-premier Andrew Fahie after he was arrested in Miami on charges of alleged money laundering and conspiracy to import cocaine in April. He has pleaded not guilty to the charges.