LONDON, CMC -Britain’s Minister for the Overseas Territories, Stephen Doughty, has held discussions with leaders of the British Overseas Territories (BOT) in the Caribbean, discussing a wide range of issues, including self-determination, devolution, and autonomy.
The virtual meeting is the first since the Labour Party was swept to victory on July 4, after 14 years of Conservative rule. The leaders of Monserrat, Bermuda, Turks and Caicos Islands, and the British Virgin Islands attended it.
As members of the United Kingdom Overseas Territories Association, Overseas Territories leaders jointly requested the meeting to discuss relevant issues and strengthen the partnership with the British Government.
Doughty outlined the core principles that he aims to establish, including respect for the rights of the BOTs, the right to self-determination, belief in devolution and autonomy, and principles of partnership.
He said there was a need for open and frank conversations to ensure that decisions affecting the OTs were made inclusively and transparently.
He said that the new Labour government would establish a more inclusive consultation plan than the Conservative Party before, saying he aimed to incorporate better the diverse needs and perspectives of the Overseas Territories.
Doughty also announced immediate actions to address BOT requests, including enhanced engagement at the Conference of the Parties (COP).
Other matters included improved public sector capacity through training and mentoring programs and addressing visa processing times with the Home Office.
“This meeting marks a significant step forward in strengthening our partnership with the UK, especially following the recent change in government,” said Bermuda’s Premier, David Burt.
He said it was encouraging to hear directly from Doughty about his commitment to respecting the rights of the Overseas Territories, “ensuring our voices are heard, opening access to additional resources, and meeting with BOT leaders individually to discuss the unique needs and issues that impact each territory.”
“It was a pleasure working with Minister Doughty while he was in the Shadow Cabinet. I look forward to continuing to develop a positive relationship with him and his Cabinet colleagues as they take office.
“The government of Bermuda is committed to working productively and collaboratively with the minister and the Foreign, Commonwealth, and Development Office to ensure that the interests of the people of Bermuda are effectively represented and addressed,” Burt added.
The meeting also discussed the upcoming Joint Ministerial Council to be hosted by the British government, bringing together leaders of the Overseas Territories.
Doughty assured it would not conflict with COP29 and that the meeting would likely occur on December 9 and 11.
The BOT leaders collectively raised issues, including the need for direct engagement with Doughty, access to finance for climate resilience, and the development of a new White Paper. They also emphasized the importance of bilateral compacts in addressing each BOT’s unique needs.
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