35 registered as British citizens

Thirty-five people were registered as British citizens this month after previously being naturalised as British overseas territory citizens.

During a Nov. 7 ceremony at the Government House, the group recited the Oath of Allegiance to His Majesty the King and the Pledge of Loyalty to the United Kingdom, according to government.

The new citizens also received congratulations from Governor Daniel Pruce and Registrar General Tashi O’Flaherty-Maduro.

Mr. Pruce told the citizens that United Kingdom ministers of government attach “great importance” to the citizenship process and ceremony.

“It’s a significant and solemn occasion,” he added. “They rightly consider that the taking of a new nationality is a matter of significance for every individual, and British law requires that those who acquire British nationality in this way must not only demonstrate a commitment to the United Kingdom but also knowledge of its history, its institutions and its language.”

The governor also said the VI’s and UK’s success in the global economy is founded on shared factors, including the common law legal system and respect for the rule of law.

“Our connections go much further than that, through our history, our people and our culture,” he said. “Most importantly, as part of the British family, we have a shared respect for democratic values and for the rights and the freedoms of all persons.”

Ms. O’Flaherty-Maduro reminded the new citizens of the responsibilities that come with their new status.

“You bring with you your own diverse cultures, languages and perspectives, which will only serve to strengthen the multicultural fabric of the United Kingdom and positively shape its community in numerous ways,” she said, adding, “The responsibilities of citizenship are not to be taken lightly, but they are balanced with the many opportunities and freedoms that come with being part of the British community.”

The British Nationality Act states that individuals who are naturalised as British overseas territory citizens after May 21, 2002, can apply to the UK government to be registered as British citizens.