THE VALLEY, ANGUILLA 19 March 2020 (Public Relations Officer Premier’s Office).
The Government of Anguilla has received approval of the Draft 2020 Budget from Baroness Sugg, the incoming Minister for the Overseas Territories who just recently replaced Lord Ahmed.
Baroness Sugg wrote: “I am pleased to see that 2019 was another very positive year for the Government of Anguilla’s public finances. This reflects the continued excellent recovery from Hurricane Irma and your prudent management.”
In making specific reference to the 2020 Budget, Baroness Sugg noted her appreciation that the Budget was prepared before the COVID-19 crisis and it will be difficult to predict the duration or its impact on the economy and public finances. Baroness Sugg further stated, “I am aware of the particular challenges that COVID-19 poses for Anguilla. I want to assure you that the UK Government and I, personally, intend to stand by you in these difficult times.”
Hon. Premier and Minister of Finance Mr. Victor F. Banks expressed his sincere thanks to Baroness Sugg on behalf of the Government and people of Anguilla. In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, Premier Banks said, “the Ministry has already commenced preliminary work in reevaluating the key assumptions in the Draft Budget and will be tracking the economic and fiscal impact of the virus over the next 3 months.” Premier Banks was particularly thankful to the team in the Ministry of Finance and all the other Ministries and his Cabinet for their hard work and dedication in producing the 2020 Budget.
The date for the Budget Address, Debate and passage into law will be announced at a later date.