Earlier today it was confirmed that the United Kingdom (UK) voted to leave the European Union (EU) in a referendum held on Thursday 23^rd June 2016. 

The Government of the Virgin Islands respects the democratic decision of the people of the UK for Britain to leave the EU.

While the UK’s departure from the EU will not be immediate, my Government will be considering the near and medium term implications of the UK’s decision on the BVI and will be closely engaged on the UK’s negotiations with the EU on the terms of Britain’s exit.

As President of the United Kingdom Overseas Territories Association (UKOTA) Political Council, undoubtedly I will be discussing the outcome of the referendum and its implications with other Overseas Territory Leaders at the Pre-Joint Ministerial Council hosted by the Turks & Caicos Governmentin a few weeks.

My Government will keep the public informed of any further developments of importance to the territory.

The BVI continues to be proud of the role that it plays in global commerce and remains an attractive jurisdiction to facilitate international business.