The Island is a self-governing, British Overseas Territory and forms part of a territorial group consisting of St Helena, Ascension Island and Tristan da Cunha.

The jurisdiction of the islands falls under the Governor, who is appointed by the Crown and based on St Helena.

The Public Service of St Helena is headed by the Chief Secretary who is also the senior policy adviser to the Governor and the Chief Minister.   The Chief Minister, four Ministers and the Attorney General form the Executive Council, who together with the Governor are the highest decision making body of the St Helena Government.

St Helena is dependent on UK financial aid. Currently, the public sector dominates the economy, accounting for two-thirds of the income and a large portion of employment. Private sector activities are limited and focused on agriculture, fishing, tourism and the provision of local services.

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