TNAG-1218-FCO40-1523-Future-of-the-Dependent-Territories-1983 — Page 174

RESTRICTED

(b)

Bermuda: 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; but moves are likely in 1983. First

step would be a referendum, outcome uncertain.

If principle approved, independence would not

come until late 1984/early 1985.

(c) British Antarctic Territory: No indigenous

population. BAT is administered by a High

Commissioner resident in the Falkland Islands.

(d) British Indian Ocean Territory: No permanent

population. Former plantation contract workers and

their families, who were semi-migrants, moved to

Mauritius; process completed 1973. Territory

administered by Her Majesty's Commissioner for

BIOT, who is Head of the East African Department of

FCO.

(e)

British Virgin Islands: Advanced form of

Ministerial system of Government with the Governor retaining the usual reserved powers. No present indication of wish for independence.

(f) Cayman Islands: A membership, or embryo

Ministerial, system. Cayman islanders believe

present constitution well suited to circumstances

and resist moves towards independence.

(g) Falkland Islands: Civil Commissioner has full

powers, but there are Executive and Legislative Councils. Overriding political issue is dispute with Argentina. Islanders resist Argentine claim to sovereignty; want to remain British. No pressure for independence.

RESTRICTED