BVI strengthens Westminster ties with new parliamentary group

The Government of the Virgin Islands has rebuilt its presence in Westminster with the reconstitution of the All-Party Parliamentary Group on the British Virgin Islands (BVI APPG), bringing together members of the House of Commons and House of Lords from across the political spectrum.

An APPG is an informal group of parliamentarians who share interest in a particular country, territory or issue. While APPGs do not make laws or take government decisions, their members can raise awareness, ask questions and help ensure the Territory's perspectives are heard across Parliament and Whitehall.

The new leadership includes Dr Al Pinkerton MP (Liberal Democrat) as chair, with three vice-chairs: Carolyn Harris MP (Labour), Jack Rankin MP (Conservative), and Lord Brady of Altrincham (Conservative). The involvement of parliamentarians from Labour, Conservative, Liberal Democrat and Reform UK parties demonstrates broad cross-party support for the group's work.

Premier Natalio D. Wheatley said the APPG was reconstituted to promote the Territory's interests and aspirations, provide a cross-party forum for parliamentary engagement, strengthen relations between both governments, and advance dialogue on self-determination, constitutional development, good governance, security, financial services, sustainable economic development and climate resilience.

Wheatley described the timing as significant for the UK-Virgin Islands relationship, noting that the Territory is advancing constitutional reform and strengthening its institutions while advocating for a modern partnership based on mutual respect and self-determination.

Tracy Bradshaw, the Virgin Islands' representative to the United Kingdom and European Union, said decisions and debates in Westminster can have profound consequences for the Territory, making it essential that parliamentarians understand the BVI's challenges, progress and aspirations.

The previous BVI APPG, chaired by James Sunderland MP, operated during a consequential period following the 2022 Commission of Inquiry. The reconstituted group will build on that foundation while developing programmes responsive to current and long-term priorities. The BVI London Office will support the group as its public enquiry point and facilitate engagement with the Government and people of the Virgin Islands.