The United Kingdom has agreed to lift the Order in Council that had been held in reserve over the British Virgin Islands (BVI), after confirming that the territory has made progress in delivering reforms from the Commission of Inquiry (COI). The minister cautioned that “fundamental and sustained change in the spirit and practice of governance, public and political life and administration in the Virgin Islands, will be the only true safeguard against backsliding.”He stressed that continued implementation was essential to rebuild trust and repair the territory’s international reputation. Doughty said the Governor would publish six-monthly reviews of good governance to ensure transparency and that “we agree to conduct a joint annual survey on implementation, and wider good governance to be made public.”The COI report, published in April 2022, had recommended sweeping reforms after uncovering concerns in areas including public contracts, land distribution, and governance practices. In response, the BVI government committed to an implementation framework monitored by the UK. Share the news