Fake news! My tenure as Deputy Premier ended, Malone to be sworn in next — Wheatley

Minister of Natural Resources & Labour Vincent Wheatley has dismissed reports that he is the permanent Deputy Premier of the British Virgin Islands.

“Fake news,” was his response to BVI News’ queries about reports made by a well-known online publication on Friday.

He also addressed the matter on his social media page.

“Just to clarify, my tenure as Deputy Premier: the Premier’s capacity-building initiative continues with Minister [of Health & Social Development Carvin] Malone being sworn in on Tuesday morning as Deputy Premier,” he said.

He added: “Thanks for all the kind words and well wishes, but there was a misunderstanding with my tenure.”

Wheatley’s appointment as Deputy Premier was from September 6 to December 6.

What the Gazette says

Government’s official newsletter, the Gazette of the Virgin Islands, indicated on December 12 that Wheatley’s appointment was extended.

In the document titled ‘Instrument appointing the Honourable Vincent Wheatley to be Deputy Premier‘ and signed on December 6, 2019, Governor Jaspert wrote: “Acting in accordance with the advice of the Premier, do by this instrument under the Public Seal appoint you, Honorable Vincent Wheatley to be the Deputy Premier of the Virgin Islands.”

Governor added: “Given under my hand and the Public Seal of the Virgin Islands this 6th day of December 2019 and in the sixty-eighth year of Her Majesty’s reign.”

The Gazette did not specify the length of time that Wheatley’s appointment was extended.