Falklands Assembly responds to Argentina's campaign: “This Assembly remains calm”
The chair of the Falkland Islands Legislative Assembly, Jack Ford, said on Thursday during a sitting of the body that there is “nothing new” in the claims made this week, and that the institution “remains calm” and steadfast in defending the right of the archipelago's residents to determine their own future.
The chair of the Falkland Islands Legislative Assembly, Jack Ford, addressed Argentina's campaign during a session of the body on Thursday. Ford stated that "there is nothing new" in the claims made this week and emphasized that the assembly "remains calm" and steadfast in its defense of the right of the archipelago's residents to determine their own future.
Ford noted that such claims against the Falkland Islands have been made numerous times throughout history, and despite these attempts, the islands have continued to grow, develop, and thrive. Ford, who also holds the Corporate Services portfolio and represents the Camp constituency, expressed gratitude for the unwavering support from the UK government, including the prime minister, foreign secretary, and other UK political figures.
He highlighted the extension of offshore hydrocarbon production licences, announced this month with British backing, as a clear indication of confidence in the archipelago's future. Ford reiterated that the confidence of the Falkland Islands does not solely rely on external support but on the democratic choice made by the islanders, as demonstrated by the 2013 referendum where 99.8% voted to remain a self-governing British Overseas Territory.
Argentina, however, claims sovereignty over the Falkland Islands, does not recognize the validity of the licences granted by the local government, and maintains that the referendum alone does not settle the matter. Argentina has initiated 60 administrative proceedings without penalties and three criminal complaints against ten companies and their directors, all of which have not been proven.
This marks the third public intervention by an assembly member within a ten-day period. Lewis Clifton, who oversees Emergency Services and Island Security, stated on September 17 that the archipelago's defences are adequate, while Cheryl Roberts, responsible for Trade, Industry, and Mineral Resources, announced the extension of oil licences on September 21.
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