§ 6. Mr. Andrew F. BennettTo ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs whether he has had any recent discussions with representatives of the British Virgin Islands.
§ The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs (Mr. Mark Lennox-Boyd)I 1149 had discussions with the Honourable Lavity Stoutt, Chief Minister of the British Virgin Islands, when he visited London in March 1991 and also when I visited the BVI between 20 and 22 May.
§ Mr. BennettWill the Minister confirm that there was no consultation with the elected representatives about the appointment of the new governor? Is that the right way for the Government to behave?
§ Mr. Lennox-BoydConsultation took place with the locally elected representatives. I know the governor-designate, Mr. Peter Penfold, well. He has a supreme qualification for that appointment, in that he is personally committed to and fond of the Virgin Islands and is committed to their welfare and progress. I hope that he receives a warm reception when he goes to the islands.