HC Deb 25 May 1979 vol 967 cc294-5W
Mr. Blackburn

asked the Lord Privy Seal whether he will take positive action to retain British sovereignty of the Falkland Islands in the face of continued Argentine claims.

Sir Ian Gilmour

Successive British Governments have left the Argentine Government in no doubt as to British sovereignty over the Falkland Islands and their Dependencies.

Mr. Blackburn

asked the Lord Privy Seal if he will implement the economic development of the Falkland Islands in accordance with the report of Lord Shackleton in 1976.

Sir Ian Gilmour

The majority of the recommendations put forward by Lord Shackleton in his economic survey of the Falkland Islands have now been implemented. The Government will continue to maintain a close interest in the development of the Falkland Islands.

Mr. Blackburn

asked the Lord Privy Seal if he will make an early policy statement in respect of the Falkland Islands.

Sir Ian Gilmour

We are looking closely at the problems of the Falkland Islands but no change of policy is currently planned. The House will be kept informed of all developments of interest.