Chief Islander welcomes new UK minister
Report and images from Tristan Governemnt UK Representative Chris Carnegy
Tristan's Chief Islander has given a warm welcome to the UK's new minister for the Overseas Territories.
Councillor Ian Lavarello wrote a letter of congratulation when Uma Kumaran MP was appointed to her post within the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office team. Then on 5th August 2026 he had the chance to convey his message in person, by video link from the island's Council chamber.
Ian Lavarello taking part in the video-link from the Tristan Council Chamber.
In a call between minister Kumaran and the OTs' elected leaders, Ian said "I send congratulations from across the miles to you on your appointment. I know you have expertise in conservation and climate change - they're both very important parts of our everyday life here on Tristan. We had a destructive storm a couple of weeks ago and we're still only starting to recover. Tristan da Cunha is the world's remotest community. We really value your support, and we were hugely grateful for it during the recent Hantavirus episode. I hope you can deliver on your government's promises to the OTs".
Minister Kumaran was flanked by FCDO officials and to her left by former OTs minister Stephen Doughty.
The minister's reply acknowledged the remarkable response to the recent health emergency in the South Atlantic and underlined her support for conservation, including the Blue Belt programme of ocean protection around the OTs. She pledged to listen to Territories' concerns, and to work jointly with the Territories when UK and OT politicians meet later in the year.
Group shot of all those taking part in the UK Government FCDO Ministers
and Overseas Territory leaders' video call on 5th August 2026.