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.