Sovereignty over the Falkland Islands has once again surfaced in international headlines. Whenever this happens, it is important that we restate what ought never to be in doubt: the sovereignty of the Falkland Islands is enshrined in law for the people who live there – British people, who have repeatedly and overwhelmingly affirmed their wish to remain part of the United Kingdom. Their voice, their rights, and their security are not negotiable.
This is not a matter of speculation or sentiment. It is a matter of law and fact. And it is the firmly expressed democratic will of the Falkland Islanders.
In 2013, the Falkland Islands held a historic referendum to settle the question of sovereignty once and for all. The turnout was extraordinary – 92 per cent – a level any democratic nation would envy. And the result was even more striking: 99.8 per cent voted to remain a British Overseas Territory. Only three votes were cast against.
It is difficult to imagine a clearer expression of political will. Those who question the islands’ status must first explain why they believe they know better than the islanders themselves.
Sovereignty over the Falkland Islands must never be in doubt. The alternative is far worse - James Cartlidge
|Rafael WOLLMANN/Gamma-Rapho via Getty Images
During my time as Exchequer Secretary to the Treasury, I examined how the Falkland Islands could strengthen their economic resilience.
One of the most obvious routes is responsibly accessing their own natural resources. It is profoundly better for the Falklands– and for Britain – to support domestic production of oil than to rely on imports from states whose values or intentions may be hostile to ours.
Energy security is national security, and that principle applies just as firmly 8,000 miles away as it does here at home.
Of course, sovereignty and prosperity ultimately rest on security. That is why our RAFTyphoons remain permanently stationed in the Falklands, ready to respond to any threat.
Their presence is not symbolic. It is a tangible demonstration of Britain’s unwavering commitment to the islands’ defence. The men and women serving there are among the finest we have, maintaining a posture of vigilance that ensures the events of 1982 can never be repeated.
Only a few weeks ago, I met representatives of the Falkland Islands at the Conservative Party Conference. Their pride, clarity and determination were unmistakable.
They are British by choice, by culture, and by democratic mandate. And I reiterated, as I do now, my firm belief that the Falkland Islands are, and must remain, British.
The Falklands do not ask for special treatment. They ask only that their rights, expressed through sovereign law and defended through partnership, are respected. That is a request we are honour-bound to uphold. At a time when global instability is growing, Britain must show resolve – not just in words but in deeds.
The Falkland Islanders have spoken with unity and conviction. It is our duty to match their voice with equal clarity: their future is British, and Britain will always stand
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