Premier and Minister of Finance Dr. the Honourable Natalio D. Wheatley (R7) has praised the UK–Overseas Territories Joint Declaration for fostering, guiding, and modernizing partnerships between the United Kingdom and its Overseas Territories. Photo: Facebook

The UK–Overseas Territories Joint Declaration serves as a framework for a "modern partnership" that is based on shared democratic values, human rights, and the rule of law between the UK and its Overseas Territories. Photo: Internet Source/ File

His comments were delivered during his appearance before the United Kingdom House of Lords Constitution Committee on Wednesday, February 11, 2026, as part of its review of the 2023 UK–Overseas Territories Joint Declaration.

The UK–Overseas Territories Joint Declaration serves as a framework for a "modern partnership" that is based on shared democratic values, human rights, and the rule of law between the UK and its Overseas Territories.

In his statement to the Committee, Premier Wheatley emphasised that the continued success of this document relies on consistent implementation across all areas of joint responsibility.

Call for update of UK White Paper

According to a press release, Premier Wheatley also urged for the current UK White Paper on the Overseas Territories to be updated to reflect recent global events and constitutional developments within these territories, stating, "He believes this step is essential to ensure that the principles of the Declaration are adequately represented in policy and practice.’’

The Premier’s remarks also highlighted the Virgin Islands' vulnerability to the physical impacts of climate change, noting that, "the devastating effects of the hurricanes in 2017 and that the territory continues to face challenges in accessing climate financing, including from the UN’s 'Adaptation Fund' and the 'Loss and Damage Fund for Developing Countries."

Dr Wheatley stressed the importance of ensuring that Overseas Territories are not disadvantaged within international climate financing mechanisms and can secure the resources necessary to mitigate the effects of future extreme weather events.

Security issues facing VI critical

He further stated that "security issues facing the Virgin Islands were another critical part of the discussion, while acknowledging that the Virgin Islands’ geographic position between North and South America gives it a crucial role in combating transnational crime networks."

Premier Wheatley called for improved collaboration with the United Kingdom to help reduce vulnerabilities and establish security frameworks that can effectively combat illicit cross-border activities, safeguard communities, and uphold law and order.

He reiterated the Virgin Islands’ commitment to further developing a mutually respectful partnership with the United Kingdom, while emphasising that the next phase of the relationship must focus on implementation, ensuring that the commitments made in the Joint Declaration are swiftly translated into measurable progress.