Giles Roca is the Chief Executive of Conservative Friends of Overseas Territories
The 14 Overseas Territories (OTs) and their 270,000 residents are a core part of our British family. From Pitcairn in the Pacific, with a population of 50, to the bustling streets of Hamilton and George Town, to the rugged camp of the Falklands – the OTs vary in size, population, culture, climate, traditions, environments, challenges, and opportunities. However, it’s clear – their diversity is their strength.
The OTs have much we can learn from, noticeably in creating successful and vibrant communities and economies whilst respecting and protecting their natural environments and unique flora and fauna.
Some may argue that these are historical legacies from a bygone age. But make no mistake: the OTs are thriving, modern, and dynamic communities that have chosen to remain part of the British family. We should rightly respect and support such free association. In return, we must ensure that the OTs feel valued, heard, and listened to.
Yet, up until now, there has been no formal vehicle or mechanism to recognise, discuss, or champion the Overseas Territories within the Conservative Party. That is why the Conservative Friends of Overseas Territories (CFOT) is being established to correct this anomaly and provide a suitable entity.
We are delighted Graham Brady, Chairman of the 1922 Committee and John Penrose will be CFOT Presidents in the House of Commons. Lord Blencathra will be CFOT President in the House of Lords. We already have more than 50 parliamentary champions at Westminster, in the Welsh Assembly, and in the Scottish Parliament. But we are ambitious and wish to grow CFOT’s supporters across Conservatives in local government, in local associations, and among university groups.
CFOT will help inform and educate Conservative members acting as a conveying body between the OTs and the Party. Â CFOT will stage a series of events throughout the year to learn more about the OTs and to discuss the key issues and challenges they face.
It’s clear that in a rapidly changing world with huge advances in technology and new ways of doing business, alongside the increasing threat from climate change, we must ensure that the relationship between the OTs and the UK can respond to and meet such challenges. What might have sufficed a few years ago may no longer be fit for purpose.
Of course, there is a broad opinion within the Conservative Party, including around the OTs. However, CFOT must operate with the confidence and support of the OTs themselves. Top-down policies or one-size-fits-all approaches clearly will not suffice. The wishes of those in the OTs and their elected representatives must be paramount. That is why CFOT will act as bridge and convener between the Party, its members, and the OTs and their representatives in London.
The Conservative Friends of Overseas Territories will formally launch at a reception in CCHQ next month and all Conservative Party members are welcome. If you would like to become a member and support CFOT, please visit www.cfot.co.uk
