Government
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Government
Bequia is the largest and most populace of the Grenadines islands, that
together with the mainland of St. Vincent, make up the island nation of
St. Vincent and the Grenadines. St. Vincent and the Grenadines gained
independent on October 27, 1979. The system of government is a
parliamentary democracy on the Westminster (UK) style.
St. Vincent and the Grenadines is a member of the British Commonwealth
with a Governor General appointed by Queen Elizabeth II. There is
universal suffrage for all persons 18 years of age and over. The Prime
Minister is the leader of the governing party and, together with his
cabinet, forms the executive branch of the government.
The legislative branch is the House of Assembly consisting of 21 seats; 15
elected representatives and 6 appointed senators. Members are elected by
popular vote to serve five year terms.
St. Vincent and the Grenadines is a member of the British Commonwealth,
the United Nations, Caricom and other international organizations.
Legal System
The legal system is based on English Common Law. Legislation governing
offshore companies is contained in the International Business Companies
Act, 1996.
Monetary Systems
St. Vincent and the Grenadines is a member of the Eastern Caribbean
Central Bank. The local currency is the Eastern Caribbean dollar which is
pegged to the US dollar (US 1$ equals EC $2.6882). US currency is also
widely used and is acceptable everywhere.
St. Vincent and the Grenadines national
anthem
(courtesy BBC) Real Audio
Constitution of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, 1979
The World Factbook Saint Vincent & the Grenadines
Currency Conversion Assistant
Official Government Website
Independence Day is
celebrated on October 27th
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