GEORGE TOWN, 29^th September 2025

United Kingdom’s Minister of State for Europe, North America and the Overseas Territories in the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office, Stephen Doughty, visited the Parliament on Monday, 22^nd September, during his visit to the Cayman Islands from 21^st to 23^rd September, 2025.

The visit to the Cayman Islands focused on the United Kingdom’s enduing partnership with Cayman and the future development of the relationship, underscoring the strong ties that exist.

Upon arrival at the House of Parliament, Minister Doughty, along with Her Excellency the Governor, Mrs. Jane Owen, was warmly received by the Speaker, Hon. D. Ezzard Miller, Deputy Clerk, Mrs. Twila Escalante, Deputy Chief Officer, Mrs. Melissa Ebanks and given a tour of the historic chamber by the Serjeant-at-Arms, Mr. J. Kim Evans.

In reflecting on the visit, the Honourable Speaker stated, “It was a privilege and honour to host Minister Doughty in our Parliament and to have an intellectual and informed discussion with him regarding the functions of Parliament in the Cayman Islands. It was also a pleasure to host Her Excellency the Governor, who accompanied him on his visit to Parliament. The discourse was both stimulating and informative, as well as respectful.”

The Minister was also formally greeted by the Leader of the Opposition, Hon. Joey Hew, who engaged in cordial discussions on matters of shared interests between the Cayman Islands and the United Kingdom. “We were pleased to host Minister Doughty and to share insights into the work of our Parliament and the official opposition. Visits such as these reaffirm the importance of continued collaboration and understanding between the United Kingdom and the Cayman Islands.”

Her Excellency the Governor, Mrs. Jane Owen, highlighted the significance of the Minister’s visit “The UK greatly values its close partnership with the Cayman Islands and is committed to supporting efforts to strengthen democratic governance. This visit will encourage continued dialogue and collaboration across all areas of parliamentary development, which are vital to reinforcing transparency, accountability, and public trust in our institutions.”

The visit concluded with a shared commitment to continue fostering strong links between the Cayman Islands and the United Kingdom, built on mutual respect, enduring partnerships, and a focus on future development.

Image:

“Group Photo – Minister Doughty’s Visit to the House of Parliament.jpeg”

• Left to Right: Deputy Clerk, Mrs. Twila Escalante, Deputy Chief Officer, Mrs. Melissa Ebanks, Speaker, Hon. D. Ezzard Miller, Mr. Stephen Doughty, Her Excellency the Governor, Mrs. Jane Owen, Director of Overseas Territories, Mr. Robbie Bulloch, Private Secretary, Ms. Emily Holdup, Serjeant-At-Arms, Mr. J. Kim Evans.

Press Contact:

Leah Archibold, Communications Specialist

Parliament of the Cayman Islands

D. +1 (345) 649-5614 | E. [email protected] |W: parliament.ky