Falkland Islands

HC Deb 11 March 2004 vol 418 cc1702-3W

Mr. Ben Chapman

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs if he will make a statement on the sustainability of the economy of the Falkland Islands. [159873]

Mr. Rammell

Through careful management of its fishery industry, the Falkland Island Government generates over £20 million per annum in licence fees. Other sectors such as agricultural production also remain important. The Falklands economy has grown rapidly since 1982 and the Falkland Island Government continues to work to ensure that it remains diverse and sustainable for the future. This includes the continued development of sectors such as tourism and mineral resources. With the exception of defence costs, the Falkland Islands receive no grant in aid from Her Majesty's Government.