Britain’s Lord Nigel Jones has described talks with Peoples Democratic Movement (PDM) leader Doug Parnell in London last week as “useful and encouraging”.
The Liberal Democrat peer and Parnell met during the TCI politician’s week-long visit to Britain.
Lord Jones is vice-chairman of the UK Government’s All Party Committee on the TCI and has long been an expert on Overseas Territories. He is also an outspoken critic of the TCI being currently under British rule.
He said, “It was a real pleasure to catch up with Doug Parnell. He is both an interesting and passionate person with a deep love and concern for his country.
“It was useful to meet him and his colleagues to receive an update on current conditions in the TCI and concerns of the islanders.
“We discussed a number of topics and I learned a lot. This was encouraging and will enable me to press the UK Government further on an early resolution of TCI’s democratic limbo status and early elections.
“Much depends on the work of the Special Prosecutor’s team to end the uncertainty. I know they are working hard, but it does seem to be taking rather a long time to come to any conclusions.”
He added, “I am now more aware of the financial pressures on the TCI budget regarding reduced revenues and fixed costs.
“I hope Mr Parnell and his delegation feel that their visit was useful as I certainly did. At least they know that TCI has some real friends in the UK Parliament.”
