Premier Dr. the Honourable D. Orlando Smith, OBE held constructive discussions with UK parliamentarians on the BVI's recovery, Brexit and financial services in the margins of the Joint Ministerial Council on November 30.

The Premier said on the Territory's recovery, "We welcome the UK guarantee of up to £300 million and grants of £10 million, but more resources will be needed to cover the more than £1 billion needed for reconstruction. Parliament's support will be needed to secure access to UK climate finance and international assistance."

Premier Smith also said on Brexit, "We want to maintain our relationship with the EU and are exploring the options with respect to CARIFORUM, CARICOM and OECS. We also want a new economic partnership with the UK after Brexit whereby we assist UK firms in accessing markets such as China and India to maintain British competitiveness in the world."

On financial services, Premier Smith said, "We remain open for business and continue to run a robust regulatory regime at the highest international standards. We also continue to be engaged with our international partners."

Commenting on the meeting with UK parliamentarians, the Premier said, "I am grateful to the Chairman of the BVI All Party Parliamentary Group, Sir Henry Bellingham MP for chairing our meeting with UK parliamentarians who were fully engaged and supportive."

The Premier met with Labour Shadow Foreign Minister, Helen Goodman MP; Lords EU Subcommittee, Chair Baroness Verma; Virendra Sharma MP, and BVI APPG Chair, Sir Henry Bellingham MP.

He was joined by Chairman of the Disaster Recovery Coordinating Committee, Brodrick Penn; Director of International Business Regulations, Neil Smith; Director of the BVI London Office, Benito Wheatley; International Relations Intern, Akita Alexander; and International Relations Intern, Xyrah Wheatley.

Photo attached:  L to R: Chairman of the Disaster Recovery Coordinating Committee, Brodrick Penn; Virendra Sharma MP; BVI APPG Chair, Sir Henry Bellingham MP; Premier Dr. Hon. D. Orlando Smith, OBE; Labour Shadow Foreign Minister, Helen Goodman MP; Director of the BVI London Office, Benito Wheatley; Baroness Verma; and Director of International Business Regulations, Neil Smith.