HC Deb 20 July 1970 vol 804 cc28-9
46. Mr. Braine

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs if he will make a statement on the talks due to take place this month with the Argentine Government on the subject of the Falkland Islands.

14. Sir G. Nabarro

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign and Common-weath Affairs whether he will make a statement on his policy regarding talks with Argentina concerning the Falkland Islands.

49. Mr. Clark Hutchison

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs if he will end negotiations or talks with the Argentine Republic concerning the sovereignty and future status of the Falkland Islands; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Joseph Godber

The present discussions in London are related solely to the question of communications between the Islands and Argentina. The question of sovereignty is not on the agenda. Her Majesty's Government's position remains that there could be no question of any transfer of sovereignty against the wishes of the islanders.

Mr. Braine

Is my right hon. Friend aware that if difficulties over communications have arisen these have never been caused by the Falkland Islanders whose sole fault throughout has been their wish to remain British? May we have a categoric assurance from my right hon. Friend this afternoon that there will be no further discussion whatsoever on the subject of sovereignty?

Mr. Godber

The position of Her Majesty's Government is that there can be no question of any transfer of sovereignty against the wishes of the islanders.

Mr. Clark Hutchison

But does my right hon. Friend realise that these discussions have been going on for a very long time, to the detriment of the islanders? Could he not call off the discussions and tell the Argentine Government once and for all that there is no question of a transfer of sovereignty?

Mr. Godber

We should recognise that the islanders have an interest in these discussions and at present there are three Falkland Islanders participating in the discussions. They are on practical matters and I believe can be of help between the two countries.

Mr. M. Stewart

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that the sensible attitude he has taken will commend itself to my hon. Friends and myself.

Mr. Godber

I am obliged to the right hon. Gentleman.