I want to send my best wishes to the people of the Virgin Islands as they prepare to celebrate Emancipation Day.

This year marks 190 years since the abolition of the horrific slave trade throughout the British Empire.

It is also the 70th year of the Virgin Islands' Emancipation Festival. I pay tribute to the organisers of the extensive programme of events, featuring local performers, artists, vendors and many other participants from the community.

I wish everyone a joyful and safe celebration.