HC Deb 15 July 1981 vol 8 c410W
Mr. Nicholas Winterton

asked the Secretary of State for Defence how many United Kingdom personnel for whom he is responsible are at present stationed in the Falkland Islands; from what units; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Blaker

The Royal Marines garrison in the Falkland Islands comprises two officers and 40 men. In addition, two RAF chief technicians are on loan to the Falkland Islands Government to assist the Falkland Islands Government air service; they come respectively from RAF Abingdon and RAF Marham. There are no plans to withdraw the Royal Marines garrison, which will be maintained at its present strength, or the RAF personnel.