HC Deb 30 October 2000 vol 355 cc274-5W
Dr. Julian Lewis

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence if he will make a statement on the(a) annual cost and (b) current role of British forces in the Falkland Islands. [134960]

Mr. Spellar

The role of the British Forces in the Falkland Islands is to demonstrate the United Kingdom's continued commitment to the islands and uphold the right of the islanders to self determination.

In respect of the annual cost of the Falkland Islands Garrison I refer the hon. Member to the answer I gave on 18 July 2000, Official Report, column 104W to the hon. Member for Lewes (Mr. Baker).