The Falklands publish referendum proposal for March vote
(Vatican Radio) The Falkland Islands has revealed the referendum proposal which its
people will be voting on in March, to decide if they retain their current status with
Britain.
The referendum, which will be held March 10 and 11, is a clarification
response to ratcheted up political pressure from Argentina, directed by President
Cristina Fernandez de Kirchner, who insists that the Islands should be part of her
country.
The Government of the Falklands has undertaken a two-week public
consultation and its Executive Council has approved the final wording of the public
consultation which reads: "Do you wish the Falkland Islands to retain their current
political status as an Overseas Territory of the United Kingdom?"
Britain and
Argentina fought a 74-day war over the Falklands in 1982, after Argentina at that
time led by dictator Leopoldo Gualteiri invaded the Islands. Argentine Forces were
defeated and left the Islands. Britain has pledged to always protect the Falklands
and that holds true to this day.