22.
Of course, the truth is that the United Kingdom's action
to retake the Falkland Islands from Argentina plainly demonstrates
our determination to fulfil our obligations.
The change in the
nationality law is quite irrelevant. But it is because it is
irrelevant that we must beware of over-reacting. We must consider
the arguments very carefully before taking steps which could have
damaging and far reaching consequences outside the Falkland Islands.
The Government believe that, if this Bill were to pass into law, the consequences would be very damaging.
most of
23. My Lords, I have addressed/my remarks to the principle of the
Bill, as is appropriate for a debate on Second Reading.
I have,
however, mentioned that the Bill has some drafting defects which make
it undesirable in any case that it reach the statute book in its
present form.
These could no doubt be corrected if the principle
were accepted and Parliamentary time were made availablc.
I cannot
however give any commitment over the Government providing either time
or drafting assistance. In any event, this is not really the time to
consider the technicalities because I hope that I have said enough to
convince your Lordships that the principle of the Bill ought not to be
accepted.
24.
The Government do not intend on this occasion to disregard the
convention on second readings of Private Peers' Bills. We shall not
divide the House. Nevertheless I very much hope that the noble Lord,
Lord Bruce, will decide in view of my remarks to withdraw
that that would be the wisest and most
his bill.
I am sure statesman like course.
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