UK holds final say on Order in Council — Governor

The decision to lift the Order in Council threatening direct UK rule in the BVI lies solely with the United Kingdom ministers.

Governor Daniel Pruce confirmed this late last week during a press conference on the implementation of the Commission of Inquiry (COI) recommendations.

Speaking on the publication of his final review, Governor Pruce clarified that his role is to assess and report on the reforms, not to make decisions about direct rule. “The decision concerning the Order in Council and whether to lift the Order in Council sits with the Minister for the Overseas Territories, Stephen Doughty, and also the UK’s Foreign Secretary, David Lammy,” Pruce stated.

He added that while he would not “prejudge what that decision might be”, he has provided “an accurate and factual and representative report of where we are” to assist in their deliberations.

The Order in Council, which was held in reserve in 2022 following the COI’s recommendation for possible temporary direct rule, remains a key concern for BVI residents and leaders. Pruce’s report comes amid ongoing debate about governance reforms and whether the BVI has sufficiently addressed concerns raised in the COI.

The governor also noted that his report is only one of several components UK ministers will consider, alongside the Virgin Islands government’s self-assessment and the findings of a public feedback exercise.

“The response to that survey was encouraging. Over 600 people shared their views… and the findings already provide enough indication to give confidence that governance is moving in the right direction,” Pruce stated.

Pruce also dismissed the need for further powers for the governor at this time. “I do not judge that additional powers for the governor are necessary,” he asserted.

The governor stressed that collaboration had been a key factor in the progress made, citing successful joint efforts between his office and the Office of the Premier. “We wouldn’t be where we are today without that,” he explained.