HC Deb 20 November 1984 vol 68 cc147-8
Q10. Mr. Dalyell

asked the Prime Minister why HMS Conqueror was ordered to return to the scene of the sinking of the General Belgrano on Monday 3 May 1982.

The Prime Minister

HMS Conqueror was not ordered to return to the scene of the sinking of the General Belgrano on 3 May 1982. but was ordered to continue operations in accordance with her current rules of engagement. Early on the morning of 4 May 1982, London time, HMS Conqueror signalled her intention to return to the area where Belgrano was attacked. She was then ordered not to attack warships engaged in rescuing survivors from Belgrano.

Mr. Dalyell

Have all signals to and from the Conqueror been retained, in any form, other than those that were in the so-called missing log book?

The Prime Minister

The hon. Gentleman has asked a number of questions about this matter. I prefer to check precisely before giving him a specific reply.