OT 291: Letter from the Chief Minister of Anguilla to the Governor of Anguilla

 

 

FCO RESPONSE TO ISSUES RAISED IN FAC REPORT

 

Your letter to me dated October 1, 2008 on the above-captioned matter refers.

 

First of all let me thank you on behalf of my colleagues and I regarding your response to the allegations against us in the FAC Report on the performance of the FCO in the Overseas Territories.

 

The Government of Anguilla's position on the actions suggested in this report is as follows:

 

1. The GOA is riot disposed to sanction a system of governmental accountability based on gossips, rumor and unproven innuendo.

 

2. However, if the FAC is in a position and is disposed to furnish to the FCO information which can be transmitted to the GOA:

 

· The precise nature of the charges being laid against the Ministers of Government;

 

· Sufficient particulars of those charges as would point to the charge of abuse of public office;

 

· The identity of the persons making the charges who would in essence constitute the virtual complainants:

 

· Sufficient evidence from the maker of the charges as would lay out a prima facie case of culpability for misconduct on the part of any Minister,

 

then, and in such case the GOA would consider the adoption of a course of conduct which, according to the nature of the evidence forthcoming, would bring effective relief to the people of Anguilla and the affirmation of good governance.

 

We would be most grateful if you would convey these sentiments to the appropriate officials at the Foreign and Commonwealth Office with the highest assurances that the Government of Anguilla is committed to the principles and exercise of good governance and the highest level of integrity in the conduct of the affairs of the Territory of Anguilla.

 

Thanks again for your support and confidence in the handling of this matter.

 

 

2 October 2008