The Bermuda government says it is moving ahead with plans to join the regional integration movement, Caricom, after being given the green light from the United Kingdom.

Deputy Premier, Walter Roban, in a statement to Parliament, said discussions had been held between Premier David Burt and the Governor of this British Overseas Territory, Rena Lalgie, on “Bermuda’s intention to make an application for full membership” in the 15-member Caricom grouping.

Roban said that Premier Burt also met with David Rutley, Britain’s Parliamentary under Secretary of State for the Americas and Caribbean, while on a trip to London earlier this month.

He said Rutley “expressed support for Bermuda making an application” and that “he encouraged Bermuda to begin the process, an offer which we will oblige.”