Henry Bellingham MP, Minister for the Overseas Territories, is making his first visit to the Cayman Islands from 18-21 April. The visit will help reinforce the relationship between the Cayman Islands and the United Kingdom and the close ties between the two governments.

Mr. Bellingham is due to meet with the Premier, Hon. McKeeva Bush OBE, JP and the Government to discuss the relationship with the UK and some of the challenges facing the Cayman Islands at present. During his visit, Mr Bellingham will also meet the Leader of the Opposition, senior Civil Servants, a cross-section of business people, representatives of Civil Society and members of the public. His programme will include elements focussed on financial services, business development, law enforcement, the environment and disaster management.

The Minister will also take the opportunity to highlight with his interlocutors the forthcoming celebrations of the Diamond Jubilee of Her Majesty The Queen and the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

Speaking ahead of his visit, Henry Bellingham said:  “I am really looking forward to visiting the Cayman Islands, which I have heard and read so much about. I welcome the opportunity to meet members of the Government and the wider community face to face during my visit, to see the Islands for myself and to learn more about the Cayman Islands and its people.”

A Reception and Cultural Evening in Mr. Bellingham’s honour has been arranged by Premier Hon. McKeeva Bush at Pedro St.  James on Thursday, 19 April 2012, 6.30 p.m.

The Minister is scheduled to make a speech. The evening will include a cultural presentation.

The participants will also include H.E. Governor Duncan Taylor, Government Ministers, Officials, MLAS’s and other dignitaries.

This will be his first visit to the Territory and the first visit by a British government minister since 2007.

After leaving Cayman, the Minister will travel on to the British Virgin Islands and then to Barbados.