The outgoing governor of the British Virgin Islands has established a commission of inquiry in response to allegations of widespread political corruption, misuse of public funds and intimidation in the islands.

A new provision which gives all Members of Parliament a three-month severance payment, should they lose their seat or chose not to stand for election, has been drawing criticism within the community.

Speaker of the House McKeeva Bush will not serve jail time after being convicted of disorderly conduct and assault charges stemming from an incident earlier this year where Bush physically assaulted a female staff member at a West Bay Road bar.