Photo: VINO/file

At the orientation's luncheon, the Premier heard the concerns of more than 30 BVI students studying abroad in the UK and discussed with them the Legal Professions Act, training contracts, law pupilages and job opportunities. 

He also discussed his recently concluded JMC meetings where the UK and Overseas Territories agreed to partner on training, capacity building, and trade and investment promotion, among other things.

The Premier explained the impact of the global economy on the territory and highlighted the linkages between the financial services industry and the real economy, including its impact on the commercial real estate market, home rentals, mortgages, construction, jobs in other industries and public finances.

He also gave an update on plans for the development of the airport and cruise pier extension and the shift in the construction sector.

The Premier concluded the luncheon by encouraging the students to prepare themselves to be able to take advantage of the opportunities that are available in the BVI, but to be also prepared to compete globally.

In an interview with the Government Information Service (GIS), Premier remarked that "I am always pleased to engage with our students, many of whom are studying law, business, accounting, teaching, medicine and other disciplines.  It is very encouraging that our students are so well engaged on the issues as this is very good for the future of the country."

Director of the BVI London Office, Mr. Kedrick Malone, also commented saying, "we are pleased to continue to support our students here in London both at this orientation programme and on an ongoing basis. We have set up a Legal Mentorship Programme that pairs BVI students with UK legal practitioners that is providing them with greater exposure."

The BVI London Office was established in 2002 to represent the interests of the territory in the UK and Europe and to support students studying abroad.