A commitment on the establishment of a new relationship between Britain and its Overseas Territories and supporting economic growth are among the topics expected to be covered at the Joint Ministerial Council this week.

David Burt is attending the meeting in London with Kim Wilkerson, the Attorney-General and Minister of Justice, and Major Marc Telemaque, the Cabinet Secretary.

The Premier will join British Government officials and leaders of other Overseas Territories.

Jason Hayward, the Minister of Economy and Labour, is also in the UK.

“While he is not attending the JMC as part of the Bermuda delegation, he will participate in the sessions relevant to economic development,” the Government said.

Mr Burt will join Mr Hayward at the Bermuda Business Development Agency’s event, A London Forum, The Bermuda Advantage, where the Premier will deliver opening remarks.

The Government noted: “The Joint Ministerial Council is the highest political forum between the UK Government and the governments of the British Overseas Territories.”

Mr Burt’s engagements will include attending an audience with King Charles III, a meeting with Yvette Cooper, the British Foreign Secretary, talks with Stephen Doughty, the Minister of State for the Overseas Territories, and attending parliamentary engagements hosted by Sir Lindsay Hoyle, the Speaker of the House of Commons.

The Government said that discussions at the JMC will focus on “securing commitments” on the establishment of a new relationship under the 2012 White Paper — which followed consultation with OTs over their constitutional relationships and Britain’s responsibilities for external affairs — as well as exploring technology and innovation in healthcare.

They will also cover ways to address illicit finance and supporting economic growth in the Overseas Territories, including establishing links with business leaders across Britain.

Mr Burt will on Friday host his annual networking dinner for Bermudian university students and recent graduates in the UK.

He said: “Annually, the Joint Ministerial Council convenes overseas territory leaders in London for discussions with the UK Government.

“Throughout the week, I will represent Bermuda in high-level meetings with the UK Government, and upon my return, I will deliver a ministerial statement to the House of Assembly to update the public on any commitments made.

“I am excited to meet Bermudian students and recent graduates who are living in the UK, as I host my annual networking dinner in London.

“I welcome the opportunity to listen to their experiences, assist their transition to employment in Bermuda and update them on the progress being made at home.

“There are several students that I met last year who have returned to Bermuda, and ministers are eager to engage with our young people.”

The island’s delegation in Britain will be supported by Kimberley Durrant, the UK representative and Director of Bermuda’s London Office.