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Falkland Islands vote to remain British Overseas Territory

The people of the Falkland Islands have voted overwhelmingly to keep their current status as a British Overseas Territory.

This was published under the 2010 to 2015 Conservative and Liberal Democrat coalition government
British Foreign Secretary William Hague

British Foreign Secretary William Hague

Following the result of the weekend’s referendum the Foreign Secretary, William Hague, said:

I welcome today’s result, which demonstrates more clearly than ever the Falkland Islanders’ wish to remain an Overseas Territory of the United Kingdom.

We have always been clear that we believe in the rights of the Falklands people to determine their own futures and to decide on the path they wish to take. It is only right that, in the twenty-first century, these rights are respected.

All countries should accept the results of this referendum and support the Falkland Islanders as they continue to develop their home and their economy. I wish them every success in doing so.

Published 12 March 2013