asked the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what was the population of the Falkland Islands before the Argentine invasion; and what is the present population, excluding defence personnel and temporary residents.

The most recent census of the Falkland Islands, taken on 7 December 1980, recorded a total civilian population of 1,813. More recent population statistics are not available though the Falkland Islands Government, whose responsibility it is, will no doubt take a fresh census as and when they consider this appropriate.