“The link with Britain will remain for as long as you wish. It acts as a safeguard to your development and continued prosperity,” Governor Alan Huckle told the people of Anguilla. He was at the time delivering an address at the Ronald Webster Park on Monday this week during the parade marking the Official Birthday of Queen Elizabeth The Second.

Scene of the Parade at the Ronald Webster Park marking the Official Birthday of Her Majesty The Queen. Governor Alan Huckle taking the salute.

He was likely responding to some schools of thought for and against independence he has heard on the island since taking up his appointment some three weeks ago. “The United Kingdom is there for you if your security is threatened as in the case of the Falkland Islands when they were invaded,” he continued. “The United Kingdom is there for you if Anguilla suffers a major disaster as in Montserrat following the eruption of its volcano.

"The link with Britain also offers the people of Anguilla and outside investors the reassurance of standards of good governance; but it is my job as Governor, in cooperation with Ministers in Anguilla’s Government and the Public Service, to foster and maintain it.

Scene of the Parade at the Ronald Webster Park marking the Official Birthday of Her Majesty The Queen. Governor Alan Huckle taking the salute.

"This is no longer a dependent relationship. Anguilla’s economy is strong enough to develop and protect itself against possible future reverses under careful and prudence governance. We must all work together to nurture Anguilla’s growing prosperity, to build a country in which all can feel proud of their success.”

Speaking about the parade itself, Governor Huckle said it symbolised the link between Anguilla and the United Kingdom, a “link that is highly valued by The Queen…who recalls her visit to Anguilla in 1994 with affection and pleasure.” He took the opportunity to commend the Police on the part they played. “I want to commend the Royal Anguilla Police Force for their excellent drill and smartness of their turn out,” he said. “They are one of the key stones of Anguilla’s democracy. Their role is to serve and protect you and to uphold law and order. Let’s give them a big round of applause.”

Scene of the Parade at the Ronald Webster Park marking the Official Birthday of Her Majesty The Queen. Governor Alan Huckle taking the salute.

In addition, the Governor had a word of appreciation for members of the other uniformed organisations: “I also want to pay tribute to the young participants in the Cadet Corps, Victory Leaders, Pathfinders, Scouts, Guides and the Boys and Girls Brigades. The way that they have acquitted themselves this morning, despite having to stand for so long in the heat, is a real demonstration of their commitment to, and pride in, their country. They are the future of Anguilla. We should be proud of them so let’s show our appreciation too.”

Cross section of guests at Government House in celebration of the Official Birthday of Queen Elizabeth the Second.

Following the parade the Governor and Mrs. Huckle hosted a reception and lunch for the rank and file of the Anguillian community at Government House from 12 noon onwards.

Cross section of guests at Government House in celebration of the Official Birthday of Queen Elizabeth the Second.

The well attended function provided an opportunity for all persons to enjoy a time of relaxation and fellowship and for the Governor and his wife to meet with them.
During the ceremony the Governor raised a toast to Her Majesty the Queen in honour of her official birthday.

Cross section of guests at Government House in celebration of the Official Birthday of Queen Elizabeth the Second.

Queen Elizabeth’s birthday was April when she made 78 years.

Governor Huckle delivering address at the Ronald Webster Park on the Queen’s Official Birthday

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