EXECUTIVE Council has officially approved that a referendum be held on the question of the political status of the Falkland Islands and announced that the Electoral Commission has agreed to assist with developing the form of the question and the wording and give a bespoke advisory service including providing guidance.

Planned for March 2013 the specific date will be determined by the Chief Executive in consultation with MLA's

In a paper on the subject it was recommended that qualifications to vote will be the same as qualifications to stand for the Legislative Assembly

Funding for the referendum consists of £12,000 for the administration £15,000 for Executive support and  £50,000 for other costs including observers.

A temporary post will be added to the establishment to provide liaison, logistical and administrative support for the referendum.

Full story in this week's Penguin News