Belize (Hansard, 27 July 1981)

§ Mr. Ridley

I had useful discussions with the Premier of Belize, the Hon. George Price during his visit to London from 19–23 July. As a result, the Governments of Great Britain to Belize agreed that Independence Day should be 21 September 1981.

We also had talks on defence arrangements for Belize after independence, and agreed the following statement: Recognising its responsibility to bring Belize to secure independence, Her Majesty's Government have agreed with the Government of Belize appropriate measures to ensure a sound basis for the future security of Belize from any external threat. It was agreed that British forces would remain in Belize after independence for an appropriate period, under arrangements to be made in Exchange of Notes between the two Governments on the attainment of independence by Belize. At the same time the British Government would provide military training, aid and assistance including the provision of training teams and Loan Service Personnel to assist in the development and growth of the Belize Defence Force. The Belize Government for their part would make available training areas for use by British forces as required. It was further agreed that certain countries in the region would be invited to participate in arrangements with the United Kingdom under which, in the event of armed attack against Belize, externally organised or supported, or the threat of such an attack; they would consult together to consider what measures should be taken in relation to such an attack. These arrangements should be viewed in the context of Belize's membership of the United Nations and of the Commonwealth and against the background of the international support already expressed for Belize's independence within its traditional and existing borders. Her Majesty's Government and the Government of Belize consider that these measures provide a sound basis for the future security and territorial integrity of Belize.