A government delegation led by the Premier has travelled to London where Overseas Territories Joint Ministerial Council meetings are being held this week.

David Burt is also expected to participate in other engagements, when he will focus on financial services and the banking sector.

The JMC forum — the highest between the British government and the elected governments of the OTs — is the first to be held under Britain’s new Labour Government.

It will be chaired by Stephen Doughty, Britain’s Minister for the Overseas Territories, and is to focus on “transforming the relationship” for the co-operation of shared interests, the Bermuda Government said.

Jason Hayward, the Minister of Economy and Labour, Chidozie Ofoego, the Financial Secretary, and Craig Swan, the chief executive officer of the Bermuda Monetary Authority, have joined the Premier on the trip.

Rena Lalgie, the Governor, will attend some of the meetings.

Other members of the delegation include Marc Telemaque, the Cabinet Secretary, Aideen Ratteray Pryse, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Economy and Labour, Kimberley Durrant, the Director of Bermuda’s London Office, and Brandon Sousa, also of the London office.

The Government said Sir Andrew Large, a vice-chairman of the Financial Policy Council, and council member Stephen Catlin are also expected to attend meetings.

Mr Burt said: “The UK Overseas Territories Joint Ministerial Council will once again bring together the OT leaders to discuss critical matters of interest to our respective countries.

“These are important opportunities for each of our islands.

“Economic, social, health, financial, immigration and climate and environmental matters will be part of our conversations this week.”

The Premier said he looked forward to meeting almost 70 young Bermudians at a reception at the London office.

He added: “This is always a highlight for me each year. And I’m eager to update them on the progress being made by their Government back home and to hear their views and feedback on how they can make a contribution to making Bermuda fairer for all.”

Mr Hayward will attend a BDA Wealth Forum and Mr Burt is to meet leaders of the Bank of England.

Mr Ofoego will meet the leadership of Lloyd’s of London.

The Premier is to return to Bermuda on Friday.