Leaders in the Falkland Islands have issued a stern warning to Nigel Farage after a Reform MP refused to exclude the possibility of relocating asylum seekers to the islands.
In a communication with The Mirror, the territory’s Assembly criticized Mr. Farage’s party for misinterpreting the islands’ self-governing status. This response came after Sarah Pochin, a key member of Mr. Farage’s party, did not rule out the option of transferring migrants to the Falklands if their party gains power.
The Assembly emphasized that the Falkland Islands are a self-governing British Overseas Territory with full responsibility for domestic affairs, including immigration. They clarified that any decisions regarding the territory must have their consent, highlighting their constitutional status and right to self-determination.
During a debate in Westminster Hall, Ms. Pochin evaded ruling out the prospect of sending asylum seekers to British Overseas territories like the Falklands or Gibraltar. However, Gibraltar firmly rejected participating in such a proposal, asserting that immigration policies are within its jurisdiction and asylum processing there is not part of its policy.
While Mr. Farage has committed to deporting a large number of people over a specific period, the destination and costs of such deportations remain ambiguous.
In response to challenges from Labour MP Luke Charters, Ms. Pochin declined to definitively rule out sending asylum seekers to the Falklands or other overseas territories, prompting concerns about the feasibility and ethics of such a plan.
Despite calls to clarify the party’s stance on using overseas territories for asylum processing, Ms. Pochin opted not to exclude any potential policies, leaving uncertainties about the future direction of Reform UK’s immigration strategies.
The Falkland Islands assembly reiterated its commitment to determining its own future and welcomed engagement from UK parties and MPs seeking to better understand the islands, their residents, and their governance system.
Following Ms. Pochin’s non-committal stance, Labour MP Kevin Bonavia expressed dismay at the possibility of using the Falklands for dispersing asylum seekers, emphasizing the historical significance of the islands and the need to protect their integrity.