Colonialism or Self-Government
Deputy Minister for Financial Services Lorna Smith says the British Virgin Islands must decide between remaining a colony or moving decisively toward full internal self-government, arguing there is no middle ground. Smith supports a measured, education-led process and calls for an immediate public education campaign and a comprehensive cost study on independence.
Deputy Minister for Financial Services Lorna Smith has warned that the British Virgin Islands can no longer straddle the line between colonial control and self-rule, saying the territory must either "shake off colonialism or keep it." Her comments respond to recommendations in the Constitutional Review Commission (CRC) report and signal growing momentum among elected leaders for a more assertive move toward internal self-government.
Speaking about the CRC's findings, Smith acknowledged that many residents are cautious and do not want to rush into independence. "We have to be very careful. We have to take our time," she said, while also warning that a halfway measure—a "less colonial" constitution—may not be achievable. "You’re either shaking off colonialism, or you keep it.
Sadly, in today’s world, in the BVI’s world, I don’t see a middle ground," she added. Smith urged that the next constitutional review—the CRC's fourth iteration—should push the territory to full internal self-government, describing this as a necessary stepping stone toward eventual independence.
She pointed to the CRC report (page 101), which notes that previous constitutional reviews led to incremental devolution of powers and advances in self-determination. A central pillar of Smith's position is public education. She welcomed the CRC's prioritisation of educating the public on self-determination and urged that education begin immediately.
Smith also called for a new, comprehensive study to quantify the costs of independence, including expenses related to diplomatic representation and participation in international organisations. The practical implications of moving to full internal self-government would be significant for BVI residents.
It could involve transferring responsibilities currently held by the Governor—such as security, aspects of external affairs and civil service management—to elected Virgin Islanders. That shift would require expanded local capacity, financial planning and clear strategies for international engagement.
Smith's stance reflects a broader change in political discourse: a growing number of elected leaders now back full internal self-government in the next constitution. The CRC's recommendations and Smith's call for education and cost analysis are likely to prompt more public debate and consultation as the territory considers the long-term pathway for governance, autonomy and its relationship with the United Kingdom.
Primary source: BVI News