TNAG-1218-FCO40-1523-Future-of-the-Dependent-Territories-1983 — Page 63

(g)

(h)

RESTRICTED ·

3

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.

Gibraltar: Ministerial system of government; Governor has usual reserved powers. Independence not an option for political reasons (Article 10

of the Treaty of Utrecht: if Gibraltar ceases to

be a UK dependency, Spain has first claim on

territory). 1967 referendum confirmed

overwhelmingly Gibraltarians' wish to retain UK

connections.

(i)

Hong Kong: Constitutional advance affected by fact

that lease of New Territories to UK expires in

1997. Hong Kong has Executive and Legislative

Councils (ex-officio and appointed members only)

which advise Governor.

(j)

(k)

Montserrat: A Ministerial system of Government; very few powers remain to Governor. No indications of wish to proceed to independence; but this could

change at any time.

Pitcairn Group of Islands:

Only Pitcairn

inhabited; population approximately 50. Governor (resident in New Zealand) has full powers; Pitcairners elect their own representatives to Island Council headed by Island Magistrate.

Independence not feasible, and not desired by

Pitcairners.

RESTRICTED