Head of the United Kingdom (UK) delegation for Constitutional Review negotiations, Mr Nicholas Wareham, MVO, 2nd from right, has reflected on his visit to the Virgin Islands this week, stating that the team is grateful to all those who engaged with them in 'frank and open' dialogue on constitutional change. Photo: Office of the Governor

Left: Mr Nicholas Wareham, MVO, Head of the United Kingdom (UK) delegation for Constitutional Review negotiations, during his visit to the Road Town Police Station. Photo: Office of the Governor

Head of the United Kingdom (UK) delegation for Constitutional Review negotiations, Nicholas Wareham, MVO, also visited HM Prison in Balsam Ghut. Photo: Facebook

The Government of the Virgin Islands hosted the first round of formal constitutional negotiations with the Government of the United Kingdom from July 14–15, 2026, as both parties engaged in discussions on possible revisions to the Virgin Islands Constitution Order, 2007.

Mr Wareham, in a post on the Office of the Governor’s Facebook page on July 17, 2026, said the UK team held “constructive negotiations” with the Constitutional Negotiating Committee and met with public servants and other members of the community on Tortola and Virgin Gorda.

“We leave with a clear understanding of the Virgin Islands' priorities and a determination to work in partnership on a new constitution that benefits all the people of the Islands for years to come,” Mr Wareham commented.

Other visits

As part of his visit to the VI, Mr Wareham visited the Road Town station and His Majesty’s Prison in Balsam Ghut.

According to the Office of the Governor, the visits provided an opportunity to meet those working on the front line of public service and to learn more about the challenges and opportunities facing key security institutions within the Territory.

Mr Wareham and team also met with seven young Virgin Islanders, to hear their views, answer questions, and discuss the constitutional review process.

The conversation covered a range of topics, including citizenship and status, governance, the UK-VI relationship, and independence.

The Office of the Governor said a recurring theme was the need for greater public understanding and education on the Constitution and how constitutional arrangements can affect everyday life, including rights, representation, and opportunities for future generations.