Way Clear For
p. 34 · Read in the full issue
Independence
Tonga and Britain have cleared the way for the kingdom to become fully independent.
King Taufa’ahau indicated this when he returned to Tonga in February from his UK visit.
But no date has been announced for independence, which is ex pected to be next year.
Preliminary steps for complete independence were made in May last year when Britain and Tonga revised their Treaty of Friendship in such a way that the “teeth” could be removed on a date to be fixed, giving Tonga full control of defence and foreign affairs.
King Taufa’ahau also indi cated in February that Tonga would align itself with Australia and New Zealand, but he did not make clear specifically what he meant.
Tonga will create her own legation in London following complete independence. Tem porary premises have already been secured.