Financial services provide a majority of the government’s funds and a significant portion of the territory’s jobs, so Premier Dr. Orlando Smith has pledged to do everything in his power to protect the industry, he said in a message published Thursday evening.

In the wake of international attention to the industry and widely reported leaks, Dr. Smith seemed to want to reassure Virgin Islands residents about the legitimacy of the territory’s financial services industry in the 17-minute message.

“I want you to know, my people, that not a single BVI law has been broken,” he said. “On the contrary, we continue to be involved competitively and legally in a well regulated industry and have adhered to the rules of engagement as laid down by the various standard-setting and watchdog organisations and agencies.”

 

See the June 27, 2013 edition for full coverage.

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