|
|
|
|
Location
Caribbean, Leeward Islands.
Time
GMT - 4.
Area
Anguilla: 91 sq km (35 sq miles). Sombrero: 5 sq km (2 sq miles). Total: 96 sq km (37 sq miles).
Population
13,600 (UN estimate 2006).
Population Density
141.6 per sq km.
Capital
The Valley. Population: 1,000 (UN estimate 2005).
Geography
Anguilla, the northernmost of the Leeward Islands, also comprises the island of Sombrero, lying 48km (30 miles) north of Anguilla, and several small islets or cays. The nearest islands are St Maarten, 8km (5 miles) south of Anguilla, and St Kitts and Nevis, 113km (70 miles) to the southeast. The islands are mainly flat (the highest point, Crocus Hill, is only 60m (213ft) above sea level) with, arguably, some of the best beaches in the world.
Government
United Kingdom Overseas Territory since 1980.
Head of State
HM Queen Elizabeth II, represented locally by Governor Andrew George since 2006.
Head of Government
Chief Minister Osbourne Fleming since 2000.
Recent History
Osbourne Fleming was re-elected as chief minister with his ruling Anguilla United Front Party in the February 2005 general elections. There are seven elected seats in Anguilla's assembly - four assembly members are appointed, three by the governor and one by the ruling party. The assembly is part of the executive council, led by the chief minister who advises the governor, who is appointed by the British monarch, according to the 1982 constitution.
Language
English is the official and commercial language.
Religion
Roman Catholic, Anglican, Baptist, Methodist and Moravian, with Hindu, Jewish and Muslim minorities.
Electricity
110/220 volts AC, 60Hz.
Social Conventions
The government is anxious to set limits to the commercialisation of the island and visitors will find that social life is centred on the tourist areas. The atmosphere is relaxed and English customs prevail. Beachwear should be confined to resorts. Topless and nude bathing is prohibited.
