Bermuda Government
Bermuda is a British Overseas Territory with a high degree of internal self-government. The official head of state is the Queen, who appoints a Governor to represent her in Bermuda. The Governor is responsible for the police, external affairs, internal security and defence. The current Governor, Sir Richard Gozney, has held office since December 2007.
Bermuda’s system of government is similar to that of the UK. There are two legislative chambers; the House of Assembly and the Senate.
The House of Assembly consists of 36 members elected by eligible voters in a general election (held at least every 5 years). The leader of the political party winning the most seats in the House of Assembly is appointed Premier and is asked by the Governor to form a government (i.e. Cabinet). The largest minority political party becomes the Opposition with its own Leader and Shadow Cabinet.
The Senate has 11 members; 5 of whom are appointed by the Governor on advice of the Premier, 3 by the Leader of the Opposition, and 3 by the Governor. To become law, legislation must be passed by the House of Assembly and approved by the Senate and Governor.
There are two major political parties in Bermuda; the United Bermuda Party (UBP) and the Progressive Labour Party (PLP). The PLP won the most recent elections held in December 2007. The current Premier is Dr Ewart Brown.
Related Links: Government Portal, Progressive Labour Party, United Bermuda Party
