§ 17. Commander Nobleasked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs if he is now in a position to state with which countries a conference has taken place, or is taking place, on the Falkland Islands Dependencies disputes.
Mr. McNeilNo, Sir. I have nothing to add to the statement made in the House on 15th March to the effect that it is the policy of His Majesty's Government to refer the question of disputed sovereignty in the Falkland Islands Dependencies to the International Court of Justice at The Hague.
§ Commander NobleWould the Minister give an assurance that we shall not be presented with a fait accompli which is perhaps rather based on the temporary background of meat rather than the permanent legal position?
Mr. McNeilHis Majesty's Government have made it plain in the House and in their replies to the two Governments concerned that we are quite sure of our legal title but that we are prepared to submit it to the appropriate organ if anyone else doubts its validity.