Jamaicans in UK Urged to Support Country’s Position on Trade Matters

High Commissioner to the United Kingdom (UK), Her Excellency Gail Mathruin has asked members of the Jamaican community to continue to support the country’s position on trade issues that would impact on the Jamaican economy.
The High Commissioner was speaking last Friday (May 20), at a reception for Jamaican community leaders and organizations from across the UK.
She told the audience that some of the activities that would occupy her time would be to ensure that Jamaica’s views and concerns were effectively communicated to the British government, particularly on matters, which will have a direct impact on Jamaica.
“Many of you are aware about proposed changes in the European Union’s sugar regime and that this will have profound implications for Jamaica’s rural economy.We continue to argue that any change must be done in such a way that small vulnerable economies such as ours, have the time to absorb the new conditions with the minimum of dislocation. I am going to be looking for your continued support on this matter and of course there are many other trade issues on the agenda, on which I will be seeking your support,” the High Commissioner said.
She pointed out that over the next four months, she planned to visit all the major communities across the United Kingdom where Jamaicans resided. She thanked the community members for their commitment and dedication to Jamaica.
The High Commissioner told the community organizations and leaders that the High Commission was working at improving the level of services, especially in the consular area. She also pledged to work with the community to air their concerns about new changes to British immigration regulations.
“We are also aware that many of the proposed changes in the immigration laws in the United Kingdom may have adverse implications for our community. I hope that we can work together in order to ensure that our views and concerns are made in the right quarters,” she said.
The High Commissioner also reminded the audience about Jamaica Diaspora Day set for June 16, and urged individuals and community organizations to participate fully in all the activities.