HC Deb 12 May 1982 vol 23 cc261-2W
Mr. Arthur Lewis

asked the Prime Minister, in view of the fact that the Argentine Government have been condemned by the United Nations for having committed unprovoked aggression and are still refusing to implement United Nations decisions, what guarantees Her Majesty's Government consider necessary to ensure that, even if the Argentine Government promise withdrawal and the establishment of the status quo, this action will actually be taken.

The Prime Minister

The Government regard it as of the greatest importance that any ceasefire arrangements or agreement in settlement of the dispute should contain satisfactory provisions for ensuring that what has been agreed is implemented in full.

Mr. Meacher

asked the Prime Minister what has been the total cost of the Falklands operation so far.

The Prime Minister

It is not possible at this stage to give an accurate assessment of the total cost of the Falklands operation. However, the extra costs so far represent a small proportion of total public expenditure, and can and will be financed without departing from the Government's economic strategy.