Premier kicks off London visit with student reception

LONDON – Premier Hon. Alden McLaughlin started off a busy week of activities in London for the Overseas Territories Joint Ministerial Council 2015 by hosting Caymanian university students at the annual Cayman Islands Students Reception held at the Cayman Islands Government London Office on Saturday 28, November, 2015.

Students from across the UK took time out of their studies to join the Premier who was accompanied by Hon. Wayne Panton, Minister for Financial Services, Commerce and Environment.

“Being in a room surrounded by the future of the Cayman Islands is a poignant reminder of why we are here and the importance of what we are striving to achieve during this week at the JMC,” said Premier McLaughlin. He also took the opportunity to encourage students to take full advantage of potential apprenticeship and training opportunities while in the UK.

On Monday, the Premier attended the UK Overseas Territories Association’s Political Council meeting at The Royal Overseas League, Over-Seas House, Park Place where OT leaders had a final opportunity to discuss items on the agenda for JMC. Premier McLaughlin led discussions with other OT’s on the issue of beneficial ownership.

“It is critical going into the JMC that, wherever feasible, we as Overseas Territories speak with one voice especially on areas of mutual interest, so this meeting is in essence our final tune up before we sit with the UK Government.”

The JMC Plenary meeting, which is hosted by Minister for the Overseas Territories, Mr. James Duddridge begins on Tuesday afternoon at Lancaster House.

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Premier Hon. Alden McLaughlin speaks to students at a reception in London Saturday evening.

Premier Hon. Alden McLaughlin, head of table, speaks at the United Kingdom Overseas Territories Association in London. Joining him were Minister of Financial Services Hon. Wayne Panton, his Chief Officer Dax Basdeo, Cabinet Secretary Samuel Rose, Sherpa Jason Webster and Andre Ebanks of Mr. Panton’s Ministry.