The Minister for Treasury and Economic Development, Mark Brooks, presented the 2025/26 budget speech to St Helena’s Legislative Council on May 27, 2025. The full text of the speech is available online.
In his remarks, Minister Brooks stated: “It is both an honour and a moment of reflection as I present what will be the final budget under this first ministerial form of government—and my final budget as the Minister responsible for Finance.” He emphasized teamwork across all sectors and encouraged its continuation. “Our shared vision remains steadfast—to empower the people of St Helena to shape their own futures,” he added.
The budget outlines a 5% increase (£1.7 million) in Financial Aid from the UK Government compared to last year, totaling £35.79 million for 2025/26. Additionally, £13.5 million has been allocated for capital expenditure on infrastructure projects.
Minister Brooks acknowledged that this financial aid represents “a vote of confidence in the direction of travel St Helena is heading.” Combined with £6.65 million BIOT funding received this year, St Helena will receive nearly £56 million in support.
Concluding his speech, Minister Brooks expressed gratitude to His Majesty’s Government and others for their support and dedication: “Above all, gratitude to the people of St Helena… The spirit, resilience, and pride of our people.”
The Appropriation Bill 2025 motion is adjourned until May 29 when it will be debated by Legislative Council members.
Proposed allocations include:
– Central Support Service —£10.8 million
– Attorney General’s Chambers — £0.1 million
– Safety, Security and Home Affairs — £3.0 million
– Judicial Services — £0.1 million
– Treasury — £8.9 million
– Police Operations — £0.9 million
– Economic Development — £5.9 million
– Education, Skills and Employment — £3.9 million
– Health and Social Care — £9.7 million
– Environment, Natural Resources and Planning — £1.7 million
The total proposed recurrent expenditure is £45.0 million with an additional standing appropriation of £6.2 million for pensions and benefits.
A further allocation includes:
– Safety, Security and Home Affairs
– Economic Development
– Health and Social Care