It never ceases to amaze real investors why respected organisations trot out the so-called "Doing Business" type reports, which contain soothing words of comfort that mask a nation's potential suitability for foreign direct investment.

The Government has never offered to purchase the property, the Half Moon Bay Resort, which includes a beach front hotel surrounded by 108 acres of amenities, golf course, estate and development lands. Between nature's gift and its owners' care, the property has been acknowledged by the Travel Channel in 1999 as being set on the best beach in the world.

Whilst Harold Lovell selectively purports that all is well with Antigua's investment rankings with the Paris Club, and the Government now seeks to launch fresh sovereign bonds, the reality of an international backlash gathers at an increasing pace.

It is significant that during his recent visit to Antigua, Mr. Augustin Carstens, Deputy Director, International Monetary Fund stressed, "Clearing longstanding arrears would go a long way toward normalising - and facilitating access to - regular financing. This will also help private investment and spur growth".

Dr. Errol Cort, Minister of Finance, has announced once again that Treasury Bills issued by the Government of Antigua & Barbuda have been highly successful.

"The Secretary of the Treasury should direct the United States Executive Directors of the International Bank for Reconstruction and Development and the International Development Association (commonly known as the "World Bank'') and the International Monetary Fund to use the voice and vote of the United States to ensure that any future loan made by the World Bank or the International Monetary Fund to the Government of Antigua and Barbuda is conditioned on providing complete redress of the matters

It takes time and effort for lies to emerge to the surface.

"You are an enemy of the State - no white woman can be allowed to own such property!" screamed Senator Asot Michael, Antigua’s former Junior Finance Minister in the face of Mrs Natalia Querard, Managing Director of HMB holdings Limited.

According to the old adage, you are judged by the company you keep and your behaviour towards others. Money is no different. Arguably, this explains Antigua & Barbuda’s failure to attract sound foreign direct investment.