The Government of Bermuda’s London Office has re-established the All Party Parliamentary Group on Bermuda in the UK Parliament.

The APPG on Bermuda, headed by British MP Alicia Kearns, will unite 24 parliamentarians from the House of Commons and House of Lords from across the political spectrum.

The group reconvened after the death of Sir David Amess MP, who served as the group’s chairman and was a “longstanding friend of Bermuda”, until he was fatally stabbed in 2021.

David Burt said: “Bermuda's interests are best served when we have friends in every corner of Westminster and Whitehall — Parliamentarians who understand our island, who understand our people and who are willing to speak up for us when it matters.

“This is the product of years of consistent, patient work by our London Office, building relationships that endure regardless of who occupies Number 10 or which party sits on the Government benches.”

The Premier said that was precisely the point of a cross-party group.

“Our relationships in Westminster are broad and deep enough to withstand any change in administration.

“I want to thank Alicia Kearns MP for taking on the chairmanship and I look forward to working closely with her and with the members of the group.

“I would also record our continued gratitude for the memory of Sir David Amess, whose service to this group and to Bermuda is not forgotten.”

The group will serve as a standing forum within Parliament to speak on matters important to the island, such as trade and investment, financial services, and matters related to the constitution and overseas territories.

It will meet regularly during Parliamentary sessions, with the Government of Bermuda London Office, the group’s secretariat, to create a programme of engagement.

Ms Kearns said: “I am delighted to be chair of the renewed APPG on Bermuda and I look forward to working closely with the Premier and the Bermuda London Office to further strengthen the longstanding relationship between the UK and Bermuda, while championing the vital role and contribution of our Overseas Territories.

“Bermuda is a remarkable place, renowned for its rich history, vibrant culture and unique heritage.

“I hope the APPG will help deepen understanding of all that the island and our relationship has to offer.”