Press statement
A comprehensive and current list of cities in the United Kingdom, its Crown Dependencies, and its Overseas Territories has been released.
Today (Monday, 29 August), the UK Government will reaffirm Gibraltar’s city status, as bestowed by Queen Victoria, confirming its special place in the Realms of Her Majesty the Queen and the family of the United Kingdom, the Crown Dependencies, and Overseas Territories.
The Government has conducted extensive study in the National Archives and determined that Queen Victoria awarded the City of Gibraltar city status in 1842, but it was deleted from the list of recognised cities. A newly-published list of 81 recognized cities substantiates its inclusion on the official list.
In 2002, 99 percent of Gibraltarians reaffirmed their support to British sovereignty in a referendum, which demonstrates the close link between Gibraltar and the United Kingdom.
Premier Boris Johnson remarked:
It is wonderful to see the City of Gibraltar receive official status, which is a testament to its rich history and vitality.
This official acknowledgment reaffirms Gibraltar’s unique status within Her Majesty’s realms and aptly represents the pride that Gibraltarians feel for their community and unique heritage.
Kit Malthouse, Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster, stated:
The cities on this list are immensely steeped in history and culture, and the locals are justifiably happy to see their city’s significance documented.
I am hoping that residents of these areas, particularly the new cities, will be able to reap the benefits of their country’s enhanced worldwide stature and that it will attract more foreign direct investment for local enterprises.
The updated list is being published in the year of the Platinum Jubilee of Queen Elizabeth II, following the issuance of eight additional grants of city status earlier this year and the award to Southend-on-Sea in honor of Sir David Amess MP.
The complete list of recognized Overseas Territories cities includes Hamilton (Bermuda), Jamestown (Saint Helena), and Stanley (Falkland Islands), which was awarded the status as part of the Platinum Jubilee competition.
The publication will also highlight the cities that have gained the prestigious titles of Lord Mayor or Lord Provost.