Chief Islander makes intervention and meets Prince Edward.

Tristan highlighted at formal JMC session in London

Report and Photos from Tristan Government UK Representative Chris Carnegy

Thursday 11th May 2023 saw the start of formal sessions of the Joint Ministerial Council, with OTs minister Lord Zac Goldsmith hosting Territory leaders and UK ministers, for a full day of discussions in the Locarno Suite of the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office.
The day began with tributes to Tristan Administrator the late Sean Burns, from Lord Goldsmith and from UKOTA chair Teslyn Barkman who spoke movingly of how his passing focused minds on the challenges that extreme isolation can bring.
Left: Chief Islander James Glass with Chris Carnegy.

James Glass with With Ascension Councillor Alan Nicholls and St Helena Chief Minister Julie Thomas
After a supportive video message from Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, delegates were then joined by two VIP guests. HRH the Duke of Edinburgh and Foreign Secretary James Cleverly mingled with the leaders and each spoke of how much King Charles cherishes the Overseas Territories.
Right: JMC delegates watching the video message from Prime Minister Rishi Sunak.

Chief Islander James Glass made the first formal intervention of the meeting, with a plea that the UK never forgets Tristan, and makes good and prompt appointments to posts such as Admin and Chief of Staff from now on. Lord Goldsmith gave a warm response, noting that he’s already committed to trying to tackle Tristan’s connectivity issues and promising he will always have Tristan’s back.
Left: HRH Prince Edward, Duke of Edinburgh with Tristan Chief Islander James Glass.
A session on economy and trade saw James address the unique challenges of infrastructure projects in remote locations, and the need for UK help tackling tariffs on lobster exports. The minister noted that UK financial support for the island has significantly increased this year.

Chief Islander James Glass