We must send more ships to Falklands’ waters, says William Hague
Britain should increase its naval presence in the South Atlantic amid its escalating dispute with Argentina, William Hague said today.
The shadow foreign secretary called on the Government to step up the number of patrols by the Navy around the Falkland Islands amid Argentinian efforts to control shipping.
Mr Hague said: "It may just be one more ship visiting more regularly.
"That kind of thing would show very clearly to Argentina — with whom, again, we want friendly relations — that we will be very firm about this.
"It would send a signal not to misunderstand British intentions."
The Ministry of Defence said it was "maintaining" British force levels.
It follows an Argentinian decree that tightens control over shipping in the region before British efforts to start oil and gas exploration off the islands' waters.
