Chief Executive of the Falkland Islands facts for kids

Quick facts for kids Chief Executive of the Falkland Islands
Arms of His Majesty's Falkland Islands Government
Incumbent Andy Keeling since 5 April 2021
Executive Council of the Falkland Islands Government of the Falkland Islands
Style	The Honourable
Appointer	Governor of the Falkland Islands
Term length	At the governor's pleasure
Formation	December 1983
First holder	David G. P. Taylor
Website	Office of the Chief Executive

The Chief Executive of the Falkland Islands is like the main manager for the Government of the Falkland Islands. Their job is to make sure that the government services run smoothly and efficiently. The rules for this important role, including what they do and how much power they have, are written down in the Constitution of the Falkland Islands.

A Look Back: How the Role Started

For a long time, after the Falkland Islands became a British territory again in the 1800s, the Governor had almost all the power. They made decisions after talking with the elected Legislative Council of the Falkland Islands.

After the Falklands War in 1982, a report was written by Lord Shackleton. This report suggested many modern changes for the Government of the Falkland Islands. One big idea was to create the job of the Chief Executive. This new role would take over some of the Governor's duties.

In 1983, David G. P. Taylor became the first Chief Executive of the Falkland Islands. Then, in 1985, the Constitution of the Falklands was put into action. This made the Chief Executive's job official. Later, in 2009, a new constitution was made. This new document explained the Chief Executive's role and powers even more clearly.

How the Chief Executive Is Chosen and What They Do

The Chief Executive is a civil service position. This means it's a job within the government's public service. The Governor chooses the Chief Executive. They do this after getting advice from the Executive Council.

Usually, the Executive Council uses a special committee to help them pick the best person. The Chief Executive serves for three years. This term can be made longer by two more years if the Executive Council asks for it.

Key Responsibilities of the Chief Executive

According to Section 83 of the constitution, the Chief Executive is the official head of all public services on the islands. The Governor can also give some of their own powers to the Chief Executive.

In this role, the Chief Executive is in charge of making sure that government decisions are put into action. They also manage the government to make sure it works well. This includes creating and looking at different plans and ideas for the Legislative Assembly to consider.

The Chief Executive is also an automatic member (called an ex officio member) of several important groups. These include the Legislative Assembly, the Executive Council, and the Advisory Committee on the Prerogative of Mercy. They also act as the Stanley's returning officer during general elections. This means they help manage the elections in the capital city.

List of Chief Executives

See also

In Spanish: Jefe del Ejecutivo de las Islas Malvinas para niños

• List of current heads of government in the United Kingdom and dependencies