A group of MPs have floated the idea of ​​giving the British Overseas Territories, including the Falkland Islands, Bermuda and Gibraltar, representation in the British House of Commons.

The 14 British Overseas Territories are self-governing, but Britain is responsible for their defense and foreign policy.

Groups of MPs from different political parties argue that there are compelling reasons to give this region a ‘voice’ in Parliament on matters that involve them.

Former Conservative Cabinet minister Karen Bradley said: “Where in our process do we have the ability to give a voice to our friends, our families, in the Overseas Territories and Crown Dependencies?”

Labor MP Lloyd Russell-Moyle advised: “My view, as I’ve expressed, is that we should have MPs here, with the right to vote. But in other areas it is also done differently. At least in the United States, for example, they don’t have a vote, but they do have full participation. We have to find a solution along those lines, otherwise we’ll all be negligent. Because the best person to make their voice heard is themselves.”

Former Conservative minister David Jones said: “I think there is good reason to say that in the case of at least some areas, we should seek integration and have those territories send members to this Parliament.” However, the chair of the Conservative Foreign Affairs Committee, Alicia Kearns, urged caution with this proposal.

Give them a “voice”

During debates in Parliament, representatives from overseas territories visited the site. As part of this visit, the Speaker of the House of Commons, Sir Lindsay Hoyle, unveiled two stained glass windows celebrating Overseas Territories and Crown Dependencies at the entrance to the President’s House at the Palace of Westminster on Tuesday. .

The proposal to give parliamentary representation to overseas territories, including the Falkland Islands, has generated heated debate among lawmakers. While some argue in favor of giving them a voice in Parliament on matters that affect them, others point to the importance of respecting the will of the territory itself.

The UK Government has stated its commitment to increased representation and support for the Overseas Territories. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has announced a new intergovernmental strategy to address the unique needs and circumstances of each region.

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