St Helena Government

the island of st helena is an internally self-governing overseas territory of the united kingdom located in the south atlantic approximately 4,000 miles from the uk. the government comprises a governor (who is appointed by the crown) an executive council, which has the general control and direction of government, and a legislative council. the governor retains responsibility for internal security, external affairs, defence, the public service, finance and shipping. the island’s population is around 4,500 and it has a typical small island economy with a high import dependency, a narrow economic base, a large public sector (around 790 staff), and significant outward labour migration. st helena receives uk government financial assistance to support recurrent and capital expenditure as part of their obligation to ensure that the reasonable needs of the population are met. the 10 year plan for st helena captures the following national goals: altogether safer altogether healthier