Ascension : ASCENSION ISLAND A BRITISH BEACON OF DEMOCRACY
Submitted by The Islander (Islander Internet Editor) 31.07.2008 (Article Archived on 14.08.2008)

The 1999 White Paper directed: "The people of the Overseas Territories must exercise the greatest possible control over their own lives.

We are proud that our Overseas Territories are beacons of democracy.  We applaud their achievements, and want them to have the autonomy they need to continue to flourish."

Democracy on Ascension eventually proved to be a sham as the British Foreign and Commonwealth Office, in effect, made a mockery of the electorate's representatives by opposing and undermining their efforts to serve the people of Ascension through democratic processes. Since the Island Council was dissolved, policies that affect the taxpayers have been designed and implemented without democratic input; the Island Council (Ascension) Ordinance and the Constitution are been modified, but is this all primarily attempts by the FCO to suppress and restrain democracy on Ascension and confine it to simply maintaining the status quo. 

Following the mass resignation of elected representatives some sixteen months ago, Governor Gurr would like to see democracy re-established on Ascension during October 2008.  Successful local elections will largely depend on the degree of democracy and progress the electorate can expect, and the assurance of a ‘Partnership for Progress and Prosperity’ from the UK Government. 

The FCO’s disregard for the electorate's representatives in the past is responsible for widespread suspicion, scepticism and apathy, but there is reason for each taxpayer to give change some consideration in preparing for the next election.  There have been significant change of FCO staff responsible for matters relating to Ascension, and the FCO appears to be adapting a more constructive approach towards the people of Ascension.  In addition, following the encouraging recommendations recently put forward by the Foreign Affairs Committee (FAC) in reference to the future of Ascension, the FCO Minister, Meg Munn, will soon deliver her response.

FAC announcement July 2008:  ‘We further recommend that the FCO should work with elected representatives to consider the potential contingent liabilities of a permanent base on Ascension Island, and means of reducing these liabilities, with the ultimate aim of granting rights of property and abode to residents.’ 

C Leo (Member AIAG)