§ Mr. Skinnerasked the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs if he will investigate the reported collaboration by the Falkland Islands Trading Company with the Argentine forces in respect of goods and materials essential to their military operations; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. OnslowI note that there has been a report alleging collaboration by the Falkland Islands company with the Argentine forces. I have no confirmation of this, and such information as I have suggests that Argentine forces obliged the company's employees to sign receipts for goods which had in fact been commandeered from them. Once British administration in the Falkland Islands is restored, it will be for the authorities there to consider whether an investigation is warranted.