Degree in Economics, Leeds University, UK. Accountant by profession. Former: Founding Partner, Coopers and Lybrand, Mauritius; Fellow, Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales. GCSK, ACCA, MP. 1987, first elected member of parliament. 2005-10, Minister of Tourism; 2010-11, Minister for Social Integration, responsible for poverty alleviation. Currently, Vice-Prime Minister and Minister of Finance and Economic Development of Mauritius. Architect of Mauritius' Africa Strategy, which has included positioning the country as an investment hub for Africa, liberalizing visas for African citizens and pursuing regional integration. Responsible for the lowest budget deficit and national debt in over 10 years (on target for 50% debt to GDP by 2018). Leader of Mauritian Social Democrat Party (PMSD). Voted African Minister of Finance of the Year 2012, African Investor and African Leadership Magazine.