TNAG-1218-FCO40-1523-Future-of-the-Dependent-Territories-1983 — Page 71

BERMUDA

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1.

Very advanced constitution with the Governor retaining only standard reserved powers.

2.

Independence is not a burning political issue but is acknowledged to be inevitable. A 1979 White Paper concluded

that independence was not the wish of most Bermudians. Following a successful election in February 1983 (independence was not an issue), Premier Swan is in favour of holding a referendum to determine the extent of popular support for independence at this time.

3.

Although no announcement has been made there is. a

possibility that such a referendum will be held before the end

of the year.

The outcome is uncertain. If the principle of independence received majority support the earliest likely

independence date would be late 1984/early 1985.

4.

Bermuda is very prosperous with the seventh highest per

capita income in the world. Mainstays of the economy are tourism (mainly from North America) and finance.

5.

Britain.

Understandably Bermuda receives no aid funds from

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