HC Deb 08 February 1994 vol 237 cc235-6W
Mr. Dalyell

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence if he will make a statement on the objective of the current garrison in the Falkland Islands.

Mr. Hanley

As long as Argentina maintains its claim to the Falkland Islands, the United Kingdom needs to maintain appropriate forces there. The objective of these forces is to deter possible aggression against the Falkland Islands, South Georgia and South Sandwich islands and, if necessary, permit reinforcement through Mount Pleasant airfield.