Premier Dr Natalio Wheatley revealed that disgraced former Premier, Andrew Fahie was frequently mentioned during meetings with UK officials, including British Overseas Territories (OT) Minister Stephen Doughty, during his trip to London last week.
Premier Wheatley, along with Deputy Premier Lorna Smith and Governor Daniel Pruce, met with Minister Doughty during the week of September 9. The purpose of the visit was to discuss updates on the Commission of Inquiry (COI) reforms and to address the possibility of lifting the Order in Council, which threatens direct UK rule over the territory.
During a joint press conference with Deputy Premier Smith on Monday, September 16, Premier Wheatley was asked whether Fahie’s conviction came up in the discussions with UK officials. The Premier’s response indicated that the issue remains significant to the UK.
“At least three times in the meeting it was mentioned,” Dr. Wheatley told journalists. “The Deputy Premier and I made it extremely clear that it is a sad chapter in the history of the Virgin Islands, and of course, what has happened has happened in Miami.” “It’s time for us now to look forward and move on,” the Premier added, with Deputy Premier Smith agreeing. He did disclose details on those discussions about Fahie.