On October 23, 2010, Prime Minister David Thompson died of pancreatic cancer. Thompson was succeeded by his Deputy Prime Minister Freundel Stuart.

Since the countrys independence, multiple third parties have formed. The National Democratic Party, the Peoples Democratic Congress, and the Peoples Pressure Movement all formed since the 1970s as third party options. They have contested various elections over the years. In addition, several independent candidates have contested past elections, but no independent has won a seat in Parliament.

On June 1, 2012, Sir Elliott Belgrave assumed office as the Governor General of Barbados. Following the retirement of Clifford Husbands, Belgrave was Acting Governor-General from November 1, 2011 until June 1, 2012. Previously, Belgrave served as Judge for the Supreme Court and Court of Appeal of Barbados.

See also Encyclopedia: Barbados .

U.S. State Dept. Country Notes: Barbados

Statistical Services www.bgis.gov.bb/stats/ .