TNAG-1152-FCO40-1432-Relations-between-Hong-Kong-and-the-Commonwealth-1982 — Page 35

BRIEF NO 52

CONFIDENTIAL

Constitutional Development of the remaining Dependencies (including

independence prospects)

BACKGROUND

Anguilla

1.

(Population:

7,000)

Formerly part of the Associated State of St Kitts/Nevis/ Anguilla, but formally separated at the end of 1980, when it reverted to dependent territory status; the Government of St Kitts/ Nevis had no objection. Independence not an issue; modest

constitutional advance introduced in 1982.

Bermuda (Population 55,000)

2.

Constitution very advanced although short of full internal self-government; Governor retains standard reserved powers. 1979 White Paper concluded independence not the wish of most Bermudians; it was not an issue at the election in December 1980 but may well be

considered at the next election due before the end of 1985.

British Antarctic Territory (No indigenous population)

3.

BAT is administered by a High Commissioner resident in the

Falkland Islands. Our sovereignty is contested by Argentina and

Chile, but the dispute is frozen under the Antarctic Treaty. No prospect of independence.

CONFIDENTIAL