The Cayman Islands Government Office in London has confirmed that as of 1 February 2018, the Government Representative, Mr. Eric Bush JP, will take the lead as Chair for the United Kingdom Overseas Territories Association (UKOTA).

Assuming the Chairmanship of the group also means that the Cayman Islands will head the Political Council, the highest decision making body which sets the policies of the Association and approves all decisions, activities and agendas.

The Cayman Islands Government London Office will also undertake the duties of the Secretariat. In addition, along with the British Virgin Islands, the Cayman Islands will co-chair the UKOTA Financial Services Sub-Committee that deals exclusively with financial services.

As Chair of UKOTA, the Cayman Islands will be hosting the annual Pre-Joint Ministerial Council, where the Members gather in the host territory to plan for the end-of -year Joint Ministerial Council with Her Majesty’s Government in London.

Two main objectives of the year will be to write a new White Paper that seeks to enhance the relationship between the UK and its Overseas Territories and to reform the Constitution of UKOTA, bringing it in line with current legislation and best practise.

Mr. Eric Bush, the Cayman Islands Representative to the UK, said, “we are pleased to assume the Chairmanship of UKOTA and we look forward to setting an industrious agenda that produces and very fruitful and productive year for all of its members.”