I have no confidence in Premier’s leadership of BVI — Smith

Former Deputy Premier Lorna Smith has expressed a distinct lack of confidence in Premier Dr Natalio Wheatley’s ability to lead the BVI.

Smith, who was recently dismissed from her ministerial role, suggested during a press conference yesterday that being vocal about her positions on actions taken by Premier Wheatley may have cost her the job she held dearly. Smith was removed from her position as Minister for Financial Services, Labour, and Trade, with Premier Wheatley citing a lack of support for Commission of Inquiry (COI) obligations as one of the reasons for her dismissal.

However, Smith strongly rejected this claim, calling it “simply untrue” and urging the Premier to be honest with the public. “I don’t want to be overly critical, but to answer the question frankly, I don’t think so,” Smith declared when questioned by reporters over whether she had confidence in Dr Wheatley’s leadership going forward. The former Labour Minister said she highlighted her growing concerns about the government’s direction many times. “I have raised my concerns with the Premier and with my colleagues multiple times,” Smith said. “And there have been a few positive responses. If you want to put it; a few positive noises. But in terms of the real progress that I want to see after, I believe it’s nearly 18 months, I just am not seeing it.”