Ascension Island Council receives introductory letter from the new Overseas Territories Minister

13 August 2024

Government, Press Release

The Ascension Island Council has received a letter from the newly appointed Minister of State at the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office, Minister Stephen Doughty, who holds responsibility for the Overseas Territories. In his letter dated 26 July 2024, Minister Doughty expressed his profound honour and privilege in taking on his ministerial role and emphasised the enduring and cherished relationship between the Overseas Territories and the United Kingdom.

Acknowledging the vital strategic importance of Ascension Island to the UK and its allies, Minister Doughty reaffirmed his dedication to supporting the island's community and protecting its natural environment. He expressed eagerness to collaborate on the One Island Vision objectives and to explore opportunities for greater co-ordination of UK Government activities on the island, aiming to further both strategic objectives and the wellbeing of the community.

In their reply, the Island Council stated,

"The Council welcomes your backing towards the Ascension One Island Vision. Collectively, with support from the UK Government, we intend to create an island environment with exceptional opportunities for our islanders. We are proud of our cultural and natural heritage and are conscious of our environmental importance towards achieving UK and global biodiversity targets."

The full text of Minister Doughty's letter (https://www.ascension.gov.ac/publicdocument/minister-doughty-to-councillors-introductory-letter) and the Island Council’s reply (https://www.ascension.gov.ac/public-document/letter-bycouncillors-to-minister-doughty) can be found on the Ascension Island Government website.