The constitution was revised in 1977, bringing finances under the responsibility of ministers elected to the Legislative Council. The British Virgin Islands is a British Overseas Territory with self-government in most internal matters. Under the constitution of 1977, the Queen is represented by a Governor responsible for defence and internal security, external affairs and the public service, with reserved legislative powers as necessary for the exercise of special responsibilities. On all other matters, the Executive Council has authority. The Executive Council consists of the Chief Minister and three other ministers, all chosen from the Legislative Council, plus the Governor and Attorney General.
Elections are usually for a four year term.
The legal system is based on British common law. There is a Magistrate s Court, a Juvenile Court and a Court of Summary Jurisdiction. As BVI is an Associate Member of the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States, cases may also be heard by the Eastern Caribbean Supreme Court. The final Court of Appeal is the Privy Council in London. 0.7 Summary of the economy The strong performance of the BVI economy over the last 10-15 years seems sustainable for the foreseeable future.