AN INVESTIGATION into allegations of corruption in a tropical British Overseas Territory has recommended a criminal inquiry into the former ruler, Foreign Office minister Chris Bryant told MPs yesterday.
An investigation into the administration of the Turks and Caicos Islands found a need for "urgent and wide-ranging systemic change".
A commission of inquiry into the islands' administration led by retired senior judge Sir Robin Auld has recommende
d launching criminal investigations in relation to former premier Michael Misick and four of his ministers.
Earlier this year, the government announced it intended to suspend part of the islands' constitution and impose direct rule through the governor in an effort to clean up the system.
In his preliminary report Sir Robin found "clear signs of political amorality and immaturity and of general administrative incompetence". In a written statement to the Commons, Mr Bryant said since that report nothing had changed Sir Robin's mind on the need for "wide-ranging systemic change".
He added: "The commissioner's final report also makes preliminary findings and recommendations including the institution of criminal investigations in relation to former premier Michael Misick and four of his former Cabinet ministers."
The inquiry was launched last year after a highly critical report by the Commons foreign affairs select committee which found "a palpable climate of fear" on the Caribbean islands.
Mr Misick is alleged to have built up a multi-million dollar fortune since he was elected to power in 2003.
He and fellow ministers are alleged to have sold off Crown land to property developers for their own gain.
