§ Mr. Menzies CampbellTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence whether he proposes to make changes in the composition of the land and sea and air forces presently 889W deployed for the protection of the Falkland Islands in the light of the resumption of diplomatic relations with Argentina.
§ Mr. Archie HamiltonI welcome the resumption of diplomatic relations with Argentina and the reciprocal consultation system that has been agreed for military movements in the south Atlantic. This agreement does not affect force levels, but will enable us to lift the Falkland Islands protection zone from the end of this month. Force levels are, however, kept under review to ensure that we continue to provide appropriate forces to maintain our commitment to the defence of the Falkland Islands.