TNAG-1218-FCO40-1523-Future-of-the-Dependent-Territories-1983 — Page 83

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aggression.

definitive Argentina has not even declared a formal cessation

of hostilities, let alone renounced the future use of force.

10.

Britain is accepted by the United Nations as the sole

administering authority of the Falkland Islands and as such we

are determined to fulfill our responsibilities under the UN

Charter (Article 73). We have made it clear that we shall not

allow any constitutional arrangements to be forced on the

Islands against their wishes. Their right to self-determination

must be respected.

11.

The background is complex and there are a number of reasons why, even if a Trusteeship agreement were feasible in practical terms, it would be very unsatisfactory from our point

of view. But the essential point is that Argentina would

undoubtedly want to play a significant role in the various

aspects of any UN Trusteeship arrangement for the Falklands and it therefore seems highly unlikely that such a solution would

commend itself to the Islanders.

FIG/Constitution

12.

The structure of the Falkland Islands Government has

evolved over a number of years. Universal adult suffrage was

introduced in 1949, in 1964 the size of the Legislative Council

was reduced, and in 1977 the Islands Councils were given their present form. Last year we made provision for the interim administration of the Islands by the establishment of a Civil

Commissioner and a Military Commissioner.

13. It is right that in the aftermath of the conflict, and

with a major effort of rehabilitation now in train, the

Islanders should consider what form of administration is most

appropriate in these new circumstances. The Councils set up a

Select Committee, and in October they circulated an extensive

questionnaire. A deadline of the end of January was set for the return of these questionnaires. The majority of those who

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