The Premier of the Virgin Islands, Dr. the Honourable Natalio D. Wheatley (R7), has announced that he will propose a motion to the United Kingdom as part of the ongoing constitutional review for the Virgin Islands, which aims to establish a more equal partnership. Photo: Internet Source

In an interview with Lawrence A. Kirton-Wheatley, also known as 'Bunchie,' during the latest episode of his podcast “Too Inquisitive,” which aired on June 12, 2026, the Premier Dr. the Honourable Natalio D. Wheatley (R7), emphasised that the Virgin Islands is currently an outlier in the global context. He noted, “We just have a handful of countries in the world, maybe about 17 or so, which are still considered as territories of some other country and quite a lot of these territories fall under the United Kingdom.” Photo:VINO/ File

In an interview with Lawrence A. Kirton-Wheatley, also known as 'Bunchie,' during the latest episode of his podcast “Too Inquisitive,” which aired on June 12, 2026, the Premier emphasised that the Virgin Islands is currently an outlier in the global context.

He noted, “We just have a handful of countries in the world, maybe about 17 or so, which are still considered as territories of some other country and quite a lot of these territories fall under the United Kingdom.”

UK has control of key areas 

Honourable Wheatley pointed out that, under the current constitutional arrangement, the United Kingdom and its representative maintain significant control over the Virgin Islands. They are responsible for key areas such as chairing the cabinet, overseeing the public service, and ensuring security.

He referenced other jurisdictions, such as the Channel Islands, which are considered Crown Dependencies and have greater autonomy. 

VI treated differently 

“They're responsible for their own public service, they’re responsible for their internal security” Premier Wheatley stated. “Why is it that we are being treated differently, and that's a question to the United Kingdom government.” 

He added, “Why is it that some persons are a little bit more equal or a little bit more of a partner than we are? I think that's some stuff that we have to correct.”

The Premier asserted that although the current situation can be classified as a partnership, it needs to be more substantive and functional, rather than merely a nominal agreement. 

“So, it is colonial. What we are experiencing is colonial-type behaviour, and I think that the United Kingdom and the people of the Virgin Islands should be willing to have it changed,” he added.