PREMIER SAYS SOLAR PROGRAMME OFFERS PATH TO ENERGY INDEPENDENCE

Premier Dr. the Hon. Natalio Wheatley has directly linked recent infrastructure damage in the British Virgin Islands to climate change, citing increased rainfall and more intense storms as evidence of growing environmental challenges. Speaking during the launch of the Solar Technology Energy Programme (S.T.E.P) the former environment minister emphasized the territory’s opportunity to become a … Continued

PREMIER REFUTES “MISINFORMED AND MALICIOUS” ALLEGATIONS ON BVI’S FINANCIAL REGULATIONS

Premier Dr. the Hon. Natalio Wheatley has strongly rejected allegations published by The Guardian that accuse the British Virgin Islands (BVI) of attempting to evade a financial crime crackdown. The article, titled “British Virgin Islands accused of ‘shameful’ attempt to avoid financial crime crackdown”, claims the territory’s leadership is in dispute with the United Kingdom … Continued

A PHASED INCREASE APPROACH TO MINIMUM WAGE LIKELY

During a recent radio interview on local show Tola Radio, the Premier of the Virgin Islands Dr. the Hon. Natalio Wheatley provided an update on the delayed minimum wage increase. Premier Wheatley said updates will be forthcoming with the possibility of a phased increase approach. The leader of government business also shared that considerations are … Continued

PREMIER HIGHLIGHTS ‘MATURE AND FRUITFUL’ RELATIONSHIP WITH GOVERNOR

Premier and Minister of Finance, Dr. the Hon. Natalio Wheatley, has described his working relationship with His Excellency Governor Daniel Pruce as one of mutual respect, maturity, and productive dialogue. Speaking at a recent press conference in response to a media question, Premier Wheatley emphasized the improved collaboration between his office and Governor Pruce. Premier … Continued

PREMIER TO LEAD TRADE AND EDUCATION MISSION TO ASIA

The British Virgin Islands is set to strengthen its ties with the Asia-Pacific region as Premier and Minister of Finance, Dr. the Hon. Natalio Wheatley, announced an upcoming diplomatic and trade mission to key financial hubs, including Hong Kong, Macau, and Malaysia. During a recent press conference, Premier Wheatley emphasized the importance of the Asia-Pacific … Continued

PREMIER UPDATES ON 64-POINT ACTION PLAN TO STRENGTHEN FINANCIAL SAFEGUARDS

Premier Dr the Hon. Natalio Wheatley recently provided an update on the territory’s progress with implementing reforms to combat money laundering and terrorist financing. The territory is working to address 64 specific recommendations outlined in a February 2024 Mutual Evaluation Report, conducted on behalf of the Caribbean Financial Action Task Force. The evaluation has prompted … Continued

PREMIER ASSURES EFFORTS TO ADDRESS GUN-RELATED INCIDENTS

With the recent rise in gun-related crimes in the British Virgin Islands, questions have surfaced about the Royal Virgin Islands Police Force’s ability to handle the escalating situation and whether external assistance from the United Kingdom may be necessary. During a recent press conference, Premier and Minister of Finance Dr. the Hon. Natalio Wheatley acknowledged … Continued

BVI WISHES U.S. WELL DESPITE RESERVATIONS ABOUT TRUMP

Premier Dr. the Hon. Natalio Wheatley has voiced optimism that the newly sworn-in United States President Donald Trump will be able to bolster the United States’ economic strength, a critical factor for the Virgin Islands’ own prosperity. At a press conference on Thursday, Premier Wheatley acknowledged the BVI’s substantial economic reliance on the United States, … Continued

BALANCING PRIVACY AND TRANSPARENCY – PREMIER SPEAKS ON BENEFICIAL OWNERSHIP ACCESS

Premier and Minister of Financial Services, Dr. the Hon. Natalio Wheatley, has emphasized his government’s commitment to balancing transparency and privacy through its recent consultation on a proposed policy regarding access to the register of beneficial ownership. The initiative, launched last week, aims to strengthen the British Virgin Islands’ financial systems, align with international best … Continued

PREMIER OUTLINES TRANSITION PLAN TO HAVE ORDER IN COUNCIL LIFTED

At a press conference earlier today, Premier Dr. the Hon. Natalio Wheatley provided an update on the Virgin Islands’ progress in implementing the recommendations of the Commission of Inquiry. He outlined the path towards governance reform, a process crucial to lifting the Order in Council that threatens to suspend the territory’s Constitution. Premier Wheatley recounted … Continued