Willock: My Speakership Was Successful
Former House Speaker Julian Willock says his three-and-a-half-year tenure was among the most successful in the BVI despite controversy and social media criticism. Speaking on the Too Inquisitive Podcast, Willock defended his leadership, pointing to institutional reforms and continued links with UK parliamentary bodies.
Former Speaker of the House of Assembly Julian Willock has defended his three-and-a-half years at the Legislature, saying his tenure produced lasting institutional improvements despite frequent controversy and public criticism. Appearing on the Too Inquisitive Podcast, Willock said he is "proud to say that I served as Speaker for three and a half years, and we’ve had one of the most successful tenures of a Speaker of the House of Assembly." His comments come after media reports that Premier Dr Natalio Wheatley is considering him for a role as a special adviser, a prospect that has sparked debate across the territory.
Willock highlighted a number of parliamentary developments that began during his term and have continued under the current administration. He pointed in particular to strengthened relationships with parliamentary bodies in the United Kingdom, which he said helped support member orientation programmes and the development of a parliamentary library.
Willock noted a recent visit to the territory by UK House Speaker Lindsay Hoyle as an example of ties that grew from exchanges initiated while he was in office. "We had a delegation in my tenure to the United Kingdom, where we met with the Speaker," he said, adding that such exchanges were intended to modernise operations and build institutional capacity within the House of Assembly.
He also praised current Speaker Corine George-Massicote, saying, "I think Madam Speaker is doing a good job carrying on the things that we have started." Much of the public debate around Willock's time as Speaker centred on viral social media clips and his decision to wear a traditional parliamentary wig.
Willock rejected suggestions that the clips made his role comical, telling the podcast host, "I reject your characterisation that it was comical." He said the wig was a personal choice made in keeping with parliamentary tradition and noted predecessors such as former Speaker Keith Flax had worn wigs.
Supporters say Willock's experience as a businessman and political strategist could benefit the government if he joins as an adviser. Critics remain wary given the controversies that marked his public life. Willock says he prefers his legacy to be judged on concrete institutional progress: "We worked on a number of things for the House of Assembly, and I'm happy to see those things bearing fruit." Any appointment would be decided by the Premier and his Cabinet, and the public debate over Willock's possible return to government service underscores continued interest in how the BVI balances tradition, reform and public accountability in its political institutions.
Primary source: BVI News