Bermuda Parliamentary Group Resumes In UK
The All Party Parliamentary Group on Bermuda has been re-established in the UK Parliament, with Alicia Kearns MP confirmed as its chair.
A Government spokesperson said, “The Government of Bermuda’s London Office is pleased to confirm the re-establishment of the All Party Parliamentary Group [APPG] on Bermuda in the United Kingdom Parliament, with Alicia Kearns MP confirmed as Chair at the Group’s inaugural meeting this week.
“The APPG on Bermuda has drawn together 24 Parliamentarians from both the House of Commons and the House of Lords, spanning the political spectrum, and includes senior figures with Ministerial experience.
“Its purpose is to provide a standing forum within Parliament for engagement on matters of importance to Bermuda, including trade and investment, financial services, constitutional matters, and the wider interests of the Overseas Territories. The Government of Bermuda London Office serves as the Group’s Secretariat.
“The Group had been paused following the death of Sir David Amess MP, who served as its Chairman and was a longstanding friend of Bermuda. Its return to the Parliamentary calendar reflects sustained engagement by the London Office across both Houses and throughout Whitehall.”
Premier David Burt said, “Bermuda’s interests are best served when we have friends in every corner of Westminster and Whitehall – Parliamentarians who understand our island, who understand our people, and who are willing to speak up for us when it matters. This is the product of years of consistent, patient work by our London Office, building relationships that endure regardless of who occupies Number 10 or which party sits on the Government benches.
“That is precisely the point of a cross-party group. Our relationships in Westminster are broad and deep enough to withstand any change in administration. I want to thank Alicia Kearns MP for taking on the Chairmanship, and I look forward to working closely with her and with the members of the Group. I would also record our continued gratitude for the memory of Sir David Amess, whose service to this Group and to Bermuda is not forgotten.”
Alicia Kearns MP said, “I am delighted to be Chair of the renewed APPG on Bermuda and I look forward to working closely with the Premier and the Bermuda London Office to further strengthen the longstanding relationship between the UK and Bermuda, whilst championing the vital role and contribution of our Overseas Territories. Bermuda is a remarkable place, renowned for its rich history, vibrant culture and unique heritage. I hope the APPG will help deepen understanding of all that the island and our relationship has to offer.”
The spokesperson said, “The Group will meet regularly through the Parliamentary session, with a programme of engagement to be developed in coordination with the Government of Bermuda London Office.”
Is this a group that assist with the call for a referendum on the issue of full membership in Caricom?
It seems that there is not broad support for full membership but the feeling is that the government just doesn’t care to hear or accept that. A referendum could settle the matter democratically.
“It seems that there is not broad support for full membership but the feeling is that the government just doesn’t care to hear or accept that.”
That is correct, Kim. The PLP Government’s idea of “independence” is to join CARICOM.