Commons Sense

House of Commons · Written Ministerial Statement

FCDO update

08 June 2022 · Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office

Proposed by Elizabeth Truss Con South West Norfolk

Foreign Affairs

Summarised by AI from the official record, so it can contain mistakes.

View on Parliament.uk

At a glance

Key points

  • The UK Government has submitted an Order in Council for potential temporary suspension of constitutional powers in the British Virgin Islands.
  • The Governor will monitor the implementation progress of governance reforms in the BVI on a quarterly basis.
  • A detailed implementation plan will be published by the GNU.

Issue summary

The Minister is updating on the Commission of Inquiry report in the British Virgin Islands (BVI) regarding serious impropriety and governance failures.

Action requested

The UK Government has submitted an Order in Council to allow for potential temporary suspension of constitutional powers if required. The Governor will monitor implementation progress quarterly, with a detailed plan published by the GNU. If necessary, the Order can be brought into force swiftly.

Key facts

  • The Commissioner identified serious impropriety and governance failures by elected officials.
  • The Report makes 48 recommendations to address issues including reforms and investigations.
  • A new Government of National Unity (GNU) was created following a vote of no confidence.
  • An Order in Council has been submitted but not brought into force, providing reassurance for swift action if needed.
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