TNAG-2976-FCO40-1245-Effect-of-the-UK-nationality-laws-on-Dependent-Territories-B-1981 — Page 121

19.

First, we made it clear from the start that the creation of citizenship of the British Dependent Territories would in no way alter the relationship between dependent territories and the United Kingdom, nor would it affect our obligations and commitments to the dependent territories and their citizens. These assurances apply to Gibraltar as much as to any dependent territories.

20.

Secondly, we have given repeated and specific assurances to Gibraltar. On three separate occasions during the passage of the Bill in another place these were reiterated and I am glad to have the opportunity to re-affirm them

Under an administrative concession, once again today. They are as follows. Gibraltarians are in practice currently able to enter the United Kingdom freely That concession is not affected by anything in this Bill and there is no

The rights which question of its being withdrawn in present circumstances. arise from Gibraltar's membership of the European Community are not affected

Even if the special by the Bill. We intend to ensure that these continue. circumstances that led to the administrative concession for Gibraltarians entering the United Kingdom were to alter, we do not foresee that Gibraltarians would normally face any difficulty in entering the United Kingdom as they wished. Some of them will hold the right of abode here because they will be

In other cases, the terms British citizens through birth here and descent.

of their admission will reflect Gibraltar's position in the European Community and the right of free movement within the Community.

21.

My Lords, we believe that we have done all we can therefore to respond to the concern which has been expressed in Gibraltar, and to reassure the people of Gibraltar that they will not suffer as a result of this Bill and have nothing to fear from it. We do not believe that we could have done more withou causing friction between Gibraltar and the other dependent territories, which

after all have claims on us too.

22. My Lords, whilst we recognise Gibraltar's concern and have done our best to meet it, her position cannot be seen in isolation from that of the other dependent territories. What is accorded to Gibraltar will be sought by the To refuse them would seriously affect our relati other dependent territories.

with them. To grant them could have equally serious consequences for

immigration into this country.

1L..