HC Deb 26 June 1974 vol 875 cc449-50W
28. Mr. Kershaw

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what proposals he has made to the Argentine Government for talks about the Falkland Islands; whether such talks will include the question of sovereignty; and whether he will make a statement.

Mr. Ennals

With the agreement of the Falkland Islands Executive Council we are in touch with the Argentine Government about the possible resumption of discussions between our two Governments in connection with United Nations Resolution 3160 (XXVII). If discussions are resumed representatives of the islanders will be invited to join the United Kingdom delegation. It remains the policy of this Government, as of previous Governments, that no change in the present British sovereignty over the Falkland Islands will be made against the wishes of the islanders.

Mr. Michael Clark Hutchison

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs if he will seek to make arrangements for a representative of the Falkland Islands Government to be present at the United Nations Committee of 24 on each occasion on which the islands' affairs are likely to be discussed.

Miss Joan Lestor

The Falkland Islands Government is represented at the United Nations by the United Kingdom Mission which will, if invited, participate in any discussions in the Committee of 24 about the Falkland Islands.

Mr. Michael Clark Hutchison

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs if he will seek to ensure that one of Her Majesty's Ministers is present at the United Nations on each occasion on which Falkland Islands affairs are raised in the Committee of 24.

Miss Joan Lestor

I am satisfied that United Kingdom interests in the deliberations of the Committee of 24 are adequately represented by the United Kingdom Mission to the United Nations in New York.

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