Premier confirms no-confidence vote caused Smith’s removal

Premier Dr Natalio Wheatley has indicated that the primary reason for dismissing former Deputy Premier Lorna Smith was uncertainty over whether she would support his government in a no-confidence motion brought by the Opposition in the House of Assembly.

In a recent appearance on the Talking Points radio show, Premier Wheatley noted his initial enthusiasm in working alongside Smith, describing her as a “capable” and “intelligent” minister with skills that served the people well.
However, as the no-confidence motion approached, he sought assurance from Smith that she would support his government but could not gain her commitment.

Dr Wheatley admitted he had hoped Smith would stay with the government until the next election but explained that Smith’s lack of clarity disheartened him.

“It was my hope to be able to continue straight up until the election with Honourable Smith,” he said. “Unfortunately, she could not provide me directly with confidence… of how she would vote in the vote of no-confidence, which is disheartening to me because, of course, as I said, I would have wanted to serve with her right up until [the next elections],” Wheatley stated.

Questions about stability in financial services

After Smith’s sudden departure from his government, the Premier also addressed concerns about stability in the financial services industry – one of two main economic pillars in the BVI.

“I had a meeting with the industry [last] Friday, facilitated by BVI Finance,” Dr Wheatley said. “My message to them was, of course, the Premier is a busy person. That is true. And I think that’s perhaps part of the concern. So what I decided, right up until the election, I’m going to put the type of attention to the financial services industry like I did with the COI.”

Premier Wheatley said he changed office locations and will now be sitting in the Ministry of Financial Services so that the personnel there will always have direct access. “I’m going to be very much engaged because we know the vulnerabilities we have right now,” he stated.

Meanwhile, Smith’s dismissal raised speculation on whether she would potentially return in a different capacity. Addressing this point, Dr Wheatley explained that while dismissed ministers can remain within the government, Smith chose to leave. He clarified, “In some other places, they just become backbenchers… but she chose to leave, which is her prerogative.”

As of now, Dr Wheatley appeared confident that the reshuffling has brought more stability to his administration, stating that he “would welcome” additional support from other House members if they choose to join his government. He also expressed appreciation for those who have already aligned with his leadership.