The United Kingdom government has published a new charter setting out how it will engage with Anguilla and its other overseas territories.
The charter reaffirms its commitment to partnership, mutual respect, democratic autonomy, good governance, inclusion and the territories’ right to self-determination.
It also states that UK government departments should consider territory interests when developing policies that may affect them and follow the principle of “nothing about you without you”.
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A press release from the Governor’s Office in Anguilla said the charter recognises that the territories make “invaluable contributions” and are integral to both the history and future of the UK.
“It describes the relationship as one founded on shared values, mutual respect, and a common commitment to prosperity, security and sustainability,” the office said on 6 October.
The document, published on 24 September, consolidates and codifies existing responsibilities and established practice for UK government engagement with the territories.
It provides greater clarity for officials and reinforces engagement consistent with each territory’s constitutional arrangements.
The charter also reaffirms the UK’s responsibility to ensure the security and good governance of the territories while supporting the continued development of self-governance and democratic institutions.
It strengthens arrangements for engagement between the UK and the territories, including through the annual UK-Overseas Territories Joint Ministerial Council and across Whitehall departments.
Read the charter in full here.
