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The End of Empire
Hong Kong was the last major British Colony.
Although there are still 13 dependent territories scattered around the world.
Most of these are too small or isolated to be able to defend or represent themselves around the world, so Britain continues to offer protection, economic help and diplomatic representation.
The Commonwealth was planned to replace the empire
- It is a voluntary organisation that meets frequently.
- It does give member nations access to a UN Security Council member
- It also is a useful forum for developing nations to discuss issues
- However, it never took on the wider political role originally planned for the organisation.