The Falklands War - Timeline

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Day 8 of the Falklands War, April 9th 1982

3 Commando Brigade (Royal Marines) sails from England aboard the SS Canberra.

Photo: SS Canberra under way leaving Southampton, with the 3rd Battalion, The Parachute Regiment and 3 Commando Brigade Royal Marines onboard.



American intelligence reports. “... the Argentines are reportedly lengthening the air strip in Port Stanley to accommodate A-4, MIRAGE, PUCARA, and C-130 aircraft and reinforcing the island with additional troops and air defence equipment…”

Secretary Haig reports back to Washington; “The Prime Minister has the bit in her teeth, owing to the politics of a unified nation and an angry Parliament, as well as her own convictions about the principles at stake. She is clearly prepared to use force, though she admits a preference for a diplomatic solution. She is rigid in her insistence on a return to the status quo ante, and indeed seemingly determined that any solution involve some retribution. .. All in all, we got no give in the basic British position ..“

An editorial in the Jornal do Brasil announces; “We are on the edge of a confrontation. The fact that a powerful fleet was ready to sail after only 5 days preparation when the normal time for an operation of such scope is usually much greater, is a clear indication of English intentions. … It is important, however, not to lose sight of the fact that there took place a violent action – and that any possibility of a successful outcome to any negotiations depends on the fact that acceptable satisfaction is given to the country that suffered the action – in this case England.... The possibility that Argentina could invoke, in its defence, the Rio Treaty, is fading away: and this means simply that Argentina cannot make use of the natural instrument for the defence of countries of the continent. And it cannot, because it was, in this case, the aggressor. ..”

A Cuban plane is forced to land at Brasilia. It is found to be loaded with electronic surveillance equipment.

[lordroel]

Day 9 of the Falklands War, April 10th 1982

in Moscow, Pravda reports; “The times when disputes could be settled by gunboat diplomacy are gone … it is clear that Britain is responsible for the consequences of this reckless policy, for it is precisely Britain that over many years stubbornly refused to carry out UN decisions on decolonization.”

Economic sanctions against Argentina are approved by the European Economic Community; to come into force on the 16th for a period of one month.

Secretary Haig arrives in Buenos Aires. President Galtieri tells a patriotic rally taking place in the Plaza de Mayo that he will do battle if the British come.

The UK's Mission to the UN considers the legality of the exclusion zone; “The General Assembly's definition of aggression (contained in Resolution 3314 (XXIX) recalls that it is for the Security Council, in accordance with Article 39 of the Charter, to determine the existence of any threat to the peace, breach of peace or act of aggression. Article 2 of the definition states that - “The first use of armed force by a State in contravention of the Charter shall constitute prima facie evidence of an act of aggression.” Resolution 502 (1982) adopted by the Security Council on 3 April 1982 referred to - “an invasion on 2 April 1982 by armed forces of Argentina” - and went on to determine that a breach of the peace existed … Article 3(a) of the definition states that - “the invasion … by the armed forces of a State, of the territory of another State” - qualifies as an act of aggression.

HMS Antrim leads the first group of Royal Navy ships into anchorage at Ascension Island.

President Galtieri receives the Cuban Ambassador, Emillio Aragones Navarro, who conveys from Fidel Castro an offer for Cuban troops to fly to the Falklands in support of the Argentine garrison there; “However, Argentinean leader General Galtieri turned down the offer because he feared it would turn Ronald Reagan's US administration against him.”

[lordroel]

Day 10 of the Falklands War, April 11th 1982

Information is received from the Swiss charge d'affairs in Montevideo, that the 22 Royal Marines, and 3 civilians, captured on South Georgia are being moved, but their destination is unknown; “It was assumed that one reason why Argentina had repatriated British prisoners so quickly was to frustrate ICRC attempts to get to the Islands.

Economic sanctions against Argentina are approved by the European Economic Community; to come into force on the 16th for a period of one month.

Jeanne Kirkpatrick, interviewed on US national television, says that she does not see a need for the US to make a choice between Argentina and Britain and that the only appropriate action is for the US to help both countries avoid war. Kirkpatrick states that the US has never taken a position on the Falklands, adding; “ .. that if the islands rightly belonged to Argentina its action could not be considered as 'armed aggression'.”

Peru calls for a 72 hour truce; “In order to avoid … a serious threat to international peace and security.”

HMS Plymouth and RFA Tidespring sail from Ascension, with HMS Antrim due to follow when unloaded. Designated TG 317.9, their orders are to sail towards South Georgia to rendezvous with Endurance.

Argentine troops continue to arrive at the Falklands. “… we are told that 9,000 are here now. Hardly seems possible but I think probably true. They are in tents as far out as Mount William, out along the Darwin Road and all over the Common towards Eliza Cove and Mullett Creek. God help them when the weather breaks. … It has now been announced by the military that any soldier asking the civilian population for food will be shot. The civilian population may, however, give food if they wish.”

[lordroel]

Day 11 of the Falklands War, April 12th 1982

At 04,00: Britain's declared 200 mile Maritime Exclusion Zone comes into effect.

La Prensa announces that Peruvian armed forces have been put on alert; subsequently denied by Lima.

Just prior to landing at Heathrow, Haig sends a message to Thatcher; “... our conversations have revealed tentative cracks in the Argentine stone wall on the withdrawal of military forces and the restoration of British administration... We are more than ever convinced that an Anglo-Argentine War would severely damage Western interests in containing Soviet expansionism.”

At the first of three meetings with Thatcher's team, Haig describes events in Buenos Aires; “The approach I took in BA was true to our discussion here. I was brutally frank with them. I said the UK was ready for war and that the nation was united. I said this was inevitable if Galtieri did not alter course. He was not bellicose but he has whipped up the people almost out of hand, though many of them are more pacific than jingoistic. The air force is fearful, the army is moderate, and the navy wants a fight. Your pressure has worked. There is an undercurrent of fear down there. The basic problem is that the threat of force alone is not enough to bring about withdrawal. Your fleet could be down there a long time. I think what they will try to do is run the blockade with Eastern European and Soviet ships. We have worked up proposals that they may be willing to accept. … Every effort we made in BA was to support your aims: (1) withdrawal of the Argentines; (2) restoration of British administration; (3) preservation of self-determination. It was ideal for me to stop here first. The Argentines were totally intransigent. They wanted Argentine rule or a commitment on sovereignty within a fixed, short period. We brought them a long way. If they could confirm our final ideas, your needs would be met. The basic concept we have developed necessarily provides for some Argentine presence and a commitment on negotiations.... but they pulled back. ..”

“Questioned by Thatcher, Haig agreed that Argentina probably was trying to seek practical arrangements that would enable them to change the character of the Falkland Islands, but he did not think that they could get very far by the end of 1982... If he could reach an agreement with Britain then he proposed to fly back to Buenos Aires. The meeting ended at 1100 to enable the British Government to consider the American text.” 13

At 1545 the War Cabinet meet to discuss the American proposals.

The British and American teams reconvene at 1755; “Haig did want the Task Force to stop and stand off, though not turn back, once the agreements were signed. The Prime Minister insisted that she would not survive in the Commons if the Task Force stopped before Argentina had completed its withdrawal... There was no basis of trust... The meeting ended at 2030.

At 2155, Haig rings Thatcher; “The Prime Minister urged that, if the ultimatum was still in place, then Washington should let it be known publicly why the effort to find a diplomatic solution had collapsed. Haig agreed.”

At Stanley, the Argentine Governor announces military exercises for the new troops; “A new flagpole has been erected outside the Secretariat to replace the one blown down a few days ago. It was made by our locals in the dockyard, who have cleverly arranged the band supporting the stays so far up the pole that it is impossible to fly anything larger than a very small flag from it.”

HMS Spartan, a nuclear-powered fleet submarine belonging to the Swiftsure-class arrives 'on station', off Port Stanley.

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Day 12 of the Falklands War, April 13th 1982

New Zealand bans all imports from, and exports to, Argentina.

Negotiations between Alexander Haig and the British Government continue; “ Mr. Haig said that he wished to take stock. As we knew, he had heard overnight from the Argentine Foreign Minister that his Government needed an outcome to the negotiations which embodied a de facto change in the administration of the Islands and a process leading to ultimate Argentine sovereignty. … the proposal for an interim Commission did not represent a sufficient degree of change towards de facto Argentine administration. The provision for negotiations on the definitive status of the Islands was inadequate as a commitment to ultimate Argentine sovereignty.Commenting on the … Argentine points, the Prime Minister said that they amounted to a demand for the handing of the Islands to Argentina with no provision for democratic processes. The Foreign and Commonwealth Secretary said that Argentine demands bore no relationship to reality. The Prime Minister commented that it was essentially an issue of dictatorship versus democracy. Mr. Haig said that he had made it abundantly clear to Argentina that if conflict developed the United Stateswould side with the United Kingdom.”

British Chiefs of Staff assemble at the Ministry of Defence to discuss the retaking of South Georgia.

Photo: Argentine soldiers on their way to occupy the captured Royal Marines base in Port Stanley, 13 April 1982



At a meeting of the OAS Permanent Council, the Venezuelan Representative makes a speech demanding the British fleet's withdrawal and stating that Argentina has a total right to defend its territory. He adds that the Security Council's Resolution 502 is biased against Argentina, which has suffered the theft of its territory by the UK and which was; “justly responding to that robbery.” The final OAS Resolution only expresses the Organization’s; “profound concern.”

A party of 13 civil servants, including the Chief of Police, the Registrar General and the Chief Secretary, are deported from the Falklands. Executive Council member, Bill Luxton, and his wife and daughter, are also deported by 'Chief of Police' Patricio Dowling for 'political reasons.'

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Day 13 of the Falklands War, April 14th 1982

Prime Minister Thatcher address to Parliament

We seek a peaceful solution by diplomatic effort. This, too, is in accordance with the Security Council resolution. In this approach we have been helped by the widespread disapproval of the use of force which the Argentine aggression has aroused across the world, and also by the tireless efforts of Secretary of State Haig, who has now paid two visits to this country and one to Buenos Aires.

On his first visit last Thursday we impressed upon him the great depth of feeling on this issue, not only of Parliament but of the British people as a whole. ... We made clear to Mr. Haig that withdrawal of the invaders' troops must come first; that the sovereignty of the islands is not affected by the act of invasion; and that when it comes to future negotiations what matters most is what the Falkland Islanders themselves wish.

On his second visit on Easter Monday and yesterday, Mr. Haig put forward certain ideas as a basis for discussion – ideas concerning the withdrawal of troops and its supervision, and an interim period during which negotiations on the future of the islands would be conducted. Our talks were long and detailed, as the House would expect. Some things we could not consider because they flouted our basic principles. Others we had to examine carefully and suggest alternatives. The talks were constructive and some progress was made. At the end of Monday, Mr. Haig was prepared to return to Buenos Aires in pursuit of a peaceful solution.

Late that night, however, Argentina put forward to him other proposals which we could not possibly have accepted, but yesterday the position appeared to have eased. Further ideas are now being considered and Secretary Haig has returned to Washington before proceeding, he hopes shortly, to Buenos Aires. That meeting, in our view, will be crucial ..”

Events of the Day

Atlantic Conveyor is commandeered by the British Government.

A small squadron comprised of HMS Antrim and HMS Plymouth, together with Royal Marines and special forces, rendezvous with HMS Endurance near South Georgia

A report in the New York Times; “The Argentine position, as outlined by officials here today, is that while it is willing to allow some form of transitional government that could include Britain and a third party such as the 60 United States or the Organization of American States, Argentine sovereignty would have to be recognized by the transitional government. In addition, Argentina would be the final authority on the island even in the transitional phase. One high-ranking military official said that only the Argentine flag could fly.”

Speculative press reports in the USA allege that the Americans are already providing the British Government with assistance in intelligence and operational matters. Alexander Haig telephones the British Prime Minister to outline his fears that the negative reaction in Argentina will bring negotiations to an end.

Presidents Pinochet of Chile, and Alvarez of Uruguay, sign a joint statement emphasising the principle of 'selfdetermination.”

[lordroel]

Day 14 of the Falklands War, April 15th 1982

Royal Navy destroyer group hold position in mid-Atlantic.

Stanley residents begin to notice fake artillery and AA guns being fabricated out of pipes, gas cylinders, lengths of painted wood & metal poles & an assortment of wheels, to confuse British aircraft, interspersed amongst real weapons.

United States President Ronald Regan again appeals to President Galtieri in a telephone call; “General Galtieri reaffirmed to me his desire to avoid conflict with your country, and his fears that conflict would cause deterioration in recently improving relations with the United States. He said that the advance of your fleet and the blockade of the islands were making his situation difficult. … General Galtieri promised to deal honestly and seriously with Secretary Haig.”

Argentina's Foreign Ministry deliver proposals to the US Embassy in Buenos Aires involving (1) cessation of hostilities, (2) withdrawal of both sides from the Falklands, South Georgia and the South Sandwich islands – Argentine forces to withdraw to the mainland and British forces to a distance of 3000 nautical miles within 7 days and to their “usual operating bases” with 15 days, and (3) Britain to adopt measures to comply with Resolution 1514, completing the decolonization by 31 December 1982 in accordance with Resolution 2065; “in this case the principle of Argentine territorial integrity is applicable.” In the interim period the Governor is to be an Argentine appointee.

Argentina's Junta announce the South Atlantic Operations Theatre, the creation of which; “... is an important element of the defence of our national sovereignty in the large area it covers: 200 maritime miles from the continental coast and around the reconquered islands of Malvinas, Georgias and South Sandwich. Once the “Theatre” has been established, the military Committee may order actions of self-defence in situations that could endanger national security. Vice-Admiral Juan Jose Lombardo, Commander of Naval Operations, has been appointed Commander of the South Atlantic Operations Theatre.”

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Day 15 of the Falklands War, April 16th 1982

Task Force ships start to sail from Ascension while HMS Sir Tristram arrives from the West Indies. Ascension Island registers 300 aircraft movements making Wideawake Airport the busiest in the world for a day.

Margaret Thatcher writes to President Reagan; “Thank you for your message of 15 April about your conversation with General Galtieri. I am sure that neither you nor Al Haig, following his most helpful visits here, are in any doubt about the strong wish of the British government, Parliament and people to avoid conflict. We have done our utmost to put Al Haig in a position where he has reasonable proposals to offer the Argentine Government. I regret we have seen no corresponding flexibility on the part of the Argentines. I note that General Galtieri has reaffirmed to you his desire to avoid conflict. But it seems to me … that he fails to draw the obvious conclusion. It was not Britain that broke the peace but Argentina. The mandatory Resolution of the Security Council, to which you and we have subscribed, requires Argentina to withdraw its troops from the Falkland islands. That is the essential first step which must be taken to avoid conflict. ...”

Before meeting the Argentine negotiating team, Haig proposes a 7 point scheme: 1) Withdrawal of Argentine troops and a halt to the progress of the British fleet; 2) Argentina's flag to remain flying on the islands under a tripartite administration (UK, Argentina & USA); 3) An expansion of Argentina's role in the islands during the interim period; 4) negotiations to conclude by the end of 1982; 5) negotiations to be guided by the principles of decolonization; 6) normalization of relations between the Islands and South America; 7) lifting of sanctions.

Costa Mendez informs Haig that Buenos Aires can accept the establishment of an interim government and undertake further negotiations, but that this had to be done within a framework guaranteeing sovereignty for Argentina. Also the UK must abandon its interpretation that the Islanders' wishes have to be paramount.

US Joint Chiefs of Staff, Secret report

"The UK will continue to seek a diplomatic solution during the lengthy transit of the Royal Navy Task Force. This effort will likely continue for a while after the task force is in the area… If some amenable compromise cannot be achieved within reasonable time, however, London appears intent on military action…."

"Although the Royal Navy enjoys a surface force superiority, it will be severely constrained by inadequate air cover and stretched supply lines. It is 4,000 miles to the small US facility on Ascension Island… The Royal Air Force will probably stage some items there for resupply as the task force passes by, however the distance precludes continuous effective resupply during operations. The British are looking at the possibility of obtaining base rights closer to the Falklands, however, there is little likelihood of this. Brazil and Uruguay have already stated they would not grant such a request. Chile has remained silent… Santiago is unlikely to provide logistical support to the Royal Navy. However, should the British inflict substantial damage to the Argentine fleet, Chile may become more receptive to a British request."

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Day 16 of the Falklands War, April 17th 1982

Secretary Haig telegrams Washington; “It has become increasingly clear that we are not dealing with people in a position to negotiate in good faith. I have spent hours negotiating with the Foreign Minister, as well as time with Galtieri himself, only to find that what is agreed ad referendum is then toughened substantially each time the Junta gets in the act. ... If, as I anticipate, I make no headway in the morning, I should depart immediately for Washington. It would be fruitless and unfair to Mrs. Thatcher for me to carry these proposals to London, thereby shifting the spotlight and onus onto her.”

In Moscow, the Foreign Ministry gives a formal statement; “We consider impermissible the attempts by the United Kingdom to re-establish colonial status and we openly oppose such attempts. We qualify them as contradictory to the decision of the UN General Assembly on decolonization of these Islands and as creating a threat to peace and security.”

Pravda reports that the United States is seeking a major base on the Falklands.

Australia's Prime Minister Fraser telegrams President Reagan; “In the aftermath of a failure of Al Haig's efforts, many countries would watch to see and be guided by the stand the United States took. It seems to me that in such circumstances it would amount to a serious blow to western values, and to the western alliance itself, if the United States did not unequivocally support Britain.”

EEC sanctions take effect; “... Italy continued to express reservations about the proposed sanction and refused to approve the official documents until the last minute, on Friday, April 16th. Ireland and Belgium also showed a notable reluctance to impose sanctions. President Mitterand and the rest of the government fully supported the British effort … In West Germany, public, government and press support appeared strong.”

The British submarine HMS Splendid, arrives “on station,” off the Falkland Islands. An alert at Ascension Island identifies what is believed to be a submarine of the Soviet navy. The remaining ships put to sea.

In the South Atlantic, ARA Santa Fé leaves Puerto Belgrano with a compliment of marines and fresh supplies for their troops garrisoning South Georgia.

The Governments of Peru, Venezuela, Bolivia, Ecuador and Colombia announce that they will increase trade with Argentina to compensate for the economic measures adopted by the European Union, and other countries.

White House, Top Secret Codeword Situation Room cable

This highly classified (Top Secret Umbra) cable draws on British intelligence and reports that "Argentina has prepared a draft note for invoking action under the Rio Treaty. The Soviet Union is reported to be ready to offer Argentina ships, aircraft and land based missiles in exchange for grain. The Argentine Foreign Ministry has denied in a telegram to the Argentine Embassy in Venezuela that the Soviet Union is providing intelligence material. The high level of Soviet photographic coverage of the area is unusual." [….]

"Argentina, which is a subscriber to the LANDSAT project, has made a request to the United States for the LANDSAT photographic satellite to be tasked to cover the Falkland Islands on 21-23 April… We doubt whether Argentina would be able to derive any military information of value from this satellite on this occasion. But if the United States grants this request the political significance would outweigh the military."

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Day 17 of the Falklands War, April 18th 1982

In the early hours, Haig is handed a revised Argentine text referring to 1) a Special Interim Authority; 2) administration on the islands to return to that which existed before the invasion but to include Argentines with limited participation; 3) a 'definitive solution' to take account of the inhabitants' 'rights' but also to recognise the 'principle of territorial integrity'; 4) December 31st, 1982 to be the final date for agreement.

Secretary Haig telegrams London; “The Argentines delivered to me at the hotel at 2am this morning a revised text resulting from yesterday's marathon session. Although their revisions are still unsatisfactory, I believe we now have – for the first time since we began this mission – some movement towards a workable solution … We will renew our deliberations at the Casa Rosada at 2pm local ...”

29 deported Royal Marines, and 13 British Antarctic Survey personnel, arrive in Montevideo.

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Day 18 of the Falklands War, April 19th 1982

Haig informs Washington of the negotiation; “It is now 3 a.m. and I have returned to the hotel after another 12 hours of up and down talks. Once again we were treated to the now familiar Argentine tactic whereby with agreement almost in hand the Junta stepped in and overruled its negotiators. There followed a soulful meeting at 10 p.m. with President Galtieri who then reconvened the Junta and the impasse was broken. We returned to the negotiating table and put together a draft text except for the single important paragraph covering the modalities for the respective withdrawal of forces. However, the text as it now stands will in all likelihood give the British genuine problems. We resume our talks later this morning at the Casa Rosada. At the conclusion of the round, I should be in a position to recommend – on the basis of the text then in hand—whether to proceed to London for consultations with Prime Minister Thatcher and her Ministers or to return to Washington briefly en route to London.”

In Madrid, the extreme right-wing Falangist Organisation stage a march in support of Argentina's take-over of the Falkland Islands and call on the Spanish Government to seize Gibraltar.

Junta member, Admiral Anaya, flies to the Falklands.

At South Georgia, submarine HMS Conqueror, commences a reconnaissance sweep of the Island.

UN Secretary-General, Pérez de Cuéllar, offers his good offices and assistance should the Haig mission fail, while Argentina calls for an emergency meeting of the OAS so that an invocation of the reciprocal defence agreement under the Rio Treaty can be discussed.

Secretary Haig transmits the results of his negotiations in Buenos Aires. The agreement, as proposed by the Junta consists of (1) an immediate cessation of hostilities, (2) neither side shall introduce more forces into the 'zone', (3) within 24 hours the UK is to rescind its exclusion zone, (4) withdrawal of half of Argentina's force within 7 days to Argentina and all of the UK's to a distance of 1750 nautical miles, (5) the UK's Task Force and submarines to return to their normal bases within 15 days, (6) Argentina to withdraw its remaining forces within 15 days, (7) all economic and financial sanctions to be terminated without delay, (8) a Special Interim Authority to verify compliance which will also oversee the local authority on the Islands, (9) the Executive and Legislative Councils to have Argentine members, (10) the flags of the UK, Argentina and the members of the Special Interim Authority to fly together, (11) rights of residence, and ownership of property, to be the same for Islanders and Argentinians, (12) “December 31, 1982, will conclude the Interim Period during which the signatories shall conclude negotiations on modalities for the removal of the Islands from the list of non-self governing territories .. and on mutually agreed conditions for their definitive status, including due regard for the rights of the inhabitants and for the principle of territorial integrity applicable to this dispute. ..”

Haig sends a personal telegram to Foreign Secretary Pym in London; “ My own disappointment with this text prevents me from attempting to influence you in any way. As you will see, there are significant steps back from the text you and I discussed in London...… I do not know whether more can be wrung out of the Argentines. It is not clear who is in charge here, as many as 50 people, including Corps Commanders, may be exercising vetoes. Certainly I can do no better at this point... My best immediate judgment in this situation is that I should return to Washington and report to the President.”

The British Government issues a statement to the press; We have just received the proposals which Mr. Haig has brought out of Buenos Aires. They are complex and difficult, and at first sight they do not meet the requirements strongly expressed by Parliament, particularly on the need to regard as paramount the wishes of the Islanders. We shall be studying them carefully ...”

In Washington, Ambassador Henderson, accompanied by Britain's Naval and Air Attachés, meet with Senator John Tower, Chairman of the Senate armed Service Committee. Tower asks Henderson to let him know what assistance the US could provide. Presidential permission has already been granted for the supply of Stinger missiles and night goggles.

Magazine cover: The cover of Newsweek magazine, 19 April 1982, depicting HMS Hermes, flagship of the British Task Force. The headline evokes the 1980 Star Wars sequel

[lordroel]

Day 19 of the Falklands War, April 20th 1982

HMS Hecla, a hospital ship, sails from Gibraltar.

Photo: HMS Hecla at Gibraltar HM Naval Base after conversion to ambulance ship ready to accompany SS Uganda which had just been converted into a hospital ship in Gibraltar



An RAF Victor from Ascension Island, overflies South Georgia conducting a radar reconnaissance.

Photo: A Handley Page - Hawker Siddeley Victor K2 tanker aircraft of No 57 Squadron RAF at Wideawake Airfield, Ascension Island. A detachment of 17 Victor tankers of No 55 Squadron and No 57 Squadron RAF were sent from RAF Marham to Ascension Island for the Falklands Conflict. Initially, Victors carried out maritime radar reconnaissance patrols.



The New York Times reports. “Argentina has invoked the wrong Treaty at the wrong time to promote the illusion that all Latin American nations support its seizure of the Falklands. They don't, and some that do serve only their own territorial ambitions.”

Francis Pym writes to Haig; “I agree that we need to study the text which you brought back from Buenos Aires, and we are doing so urgently..”

In London, Prime Minister Thatcher tells the Commons:

“The proposals are Argentine proposals. We are grateful to Mr. Haig for the patience and stamina that he has shown over the proposals, both in Buenos Aires and in his visits to this country, but they are Argentine proposals. He has kept us fully informed, when he has been able to do so, about precisely what they are. We now have full details. … We regard this as a stage in the negotiating process that must now be continued. We are examining the proposals very closely and will seek to put forward our own proposals to Mr. Haig. With that in mind, my right hon. Friend the Foreign Secretary plans to visit Washington on Thursday. I do not believe that there ismuch point in reporting to the House before my right hon. Friend has seen Mr. Haig in Washington.

Among the many problems presented by the Argentine proposals is that they fail to provide that the Falkland Islanders should be able to determine their own destiny. The House has always said that the wishes of the islanders are paramount. As regards the proposals put forward by the right hon. Member for Leeds, East that referred to United Nations administrators, we are in the process of one negotiation through Mr. Haig, and it would be better not to get our wires crossed but to go steadily forward on that proposal. I accept what the right hon. Gentleman said. We are trying to secure implementation of United Nations resolution No. 502, which is clear, but not so easy to implement. We also have rights on self-defence under article 51 of the charter... the House, in exercising its duty, has always said, not only in these negotiations, but on many previous negotiations, that the wishes of the islanders are paramount. Many previous negotiations have been on the basis that the Argentines wanted what is called decolonisation— that has a particular meaning in United Nations terms—but they have not been able or willing to grant self-determination to the islanders.”

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Day 20 of the Falklands War, April 21st 1982

Sir Anthony Parsons telegrams London from the UN; “Yesterday's vote in the OAS is seen here as a diplomatic setback for us, the first serious one we have encountered since the crisis began. If the Argentines succeed on 26 April in getting a twothirds majority in favour of economic or other measures against the UK, this will be a major defeat for us in UN terms. .. The Argentines are continuing to press hard for the early adoption of a communique by the [Non-Aligned Movement] Coordinating Bureau. A drafting group has been set up under Cuban Chairmanship consisting of Argentina, Bangladesh, India, Nigeria and Yugoslavia. The present plan is for the Coordinating Bureau to meet on 23 April. The Argentines have apparently shown some flexibility and indicated a readiness to accept a reference to SCR 502, provided that there is a resounding reaffirmation of previous NAM pronouncements on sovereignty. We are working hard on the Commonwealth members of the drafting group, amongst whom Bangladesh is being particularly helpful. ...”

Intelligence suggests that elements of Argentina's navy, including the aircraft carrier 25 de Mayo, are located between the Argentine coast and the Falklands Maritime Exclusion Zone.

Francis Pym makes a statement to Parliament regarding his imminent departure to Washington; “Any negotiation which is concluded satisfactorily must deal with certain critical points: in particular the arrangements for the Argentine withdrawal; the nature of any interim administration of the islands, and the framework for the negotiations on the long-term solution to the dispute for which the United Nations resolution calls. We put to Mr. Haig, when he was in London, ideas which we believed would commend themselves to the House and accord with the wishes of the islanders. He subsequently took them to Buenos Aires. The latest Argentine proposals—despite Mr. Haig's efforts—still fail to satisfy our essential requirements in certain important respects relating to these points. They reflect continuing efforts by Argentina to establish by her aggression and her defiance of the United Nations … what could not be established by peaceful means.”

Under Argentine Decree 757 Stanley is renamed, Puerto Argentino.

In London, the final decision is taken for the recovery of South Georgia, and TG 317.9, including Endurance, is ordered to proceed. In appalling weather conditions, and only after two failed attempts, SAS Mountain Troop, are placed on the Fortuna Glacier. 

Argentine Boeing 707's, equipped with Israeli reconnaissance systems, identify the Hermes group sailing south; “Lewin made the point to the War Cabinet that by shadowing the Task Force, the 707s could direct combat units, including submarines, to attack positions. He proposed that all Argentine aircraft engaged in surveillance should be treated as combat aircraft... The FCO was uncertain about the advantages this surveillance gave to Argentina but very clear politically about how the Argentines might exploit the downing of a civilian aircraft. They would undoubtedly claim this was on a normal transatlantic flight with a filed flight plan. At this sensitive moment,... the diplomats wanted a more cautious approach.”

In Washington, Ambassador Henderson quietly informs Haig of the decision on South Georgia; “Haig's immediate reaction, when I told him, was one of surprise and concern … He thought that our proposed action would aggravate the problem and make a return to negotiation more difficult … After he had had time to think about it a bit longer, Haig seemed to me to come round more in support of our proposed action, he quite saw the need for us to show firmness, which was all that the Argentine leaders would understand ...”

The Argentine junta now announces that Stanley is to be renamed "Puerto Argentino" - quite literally "Argentine Port". Signs in Stanley are being replaced, like here on the airport.

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Day 21 of the Falklands War, April 22nd 1982

FCO advice to all British nationals in Argentina is that they should now leave the country.

In Brussels, the European Parliament says that it is; “.. profoundly shocked by the invasion of the Falkland Islands by Argentina and more than ever convinced that territorial disputes should be resolved by peaceful negotiations, … Condemns unreservedly the invasion of the Falkland Islands...”

Junta member, President Galtieri, visits the Islands while the first elements of the British task force arrive off the archipelago, where he reviews his forces' defenses; “... the British were most likely to land near to Stanley, in which case the Argentine reserves were inadequate. It was also agreed that a further regiment of infantry was needed, although the local commanders stressed the need to address the logistical issues that the extra men would raise. On his return to Buenos Aires, and without consultation, Galtieri decided to send an extra brigade...

On South Georgia, still attempting to operate in severe weather, an attempt to pick up the SAS team on Fortuna Glacier results in two Wessex helicopters crashing in “whiteout” conditions. There are no casualties and the group, plus pilots, are successfully taken off by Antrim's helicopter. HMS Brilliant, with its two helicopters, is ordered to reinforce the ships at South Georgia.

The British team in Washington, working with the Americans, amend Argentina's proposals in an attempt to find some 'middle ground'. The result includes, (1) an immediate cessation of hostilities, (2) neither side shall introduce more forces into the 'zone', (3) within 24 hours the UK is to rescind its exclusion zone, (4) both sides will withdraw half of their forces and equipment within 7 days; with the UK's force standing off to a distance equivalent of 7 days steaming at 12 knots. Argentina's forces to be put into a condition whereby they could not be reinserted within 7 days, (5) both sides forces to return to their usual operating areas or normal duties within 15 days, (6) the USA to verify compliance, (7) all economic and financial sanctions to be terminated without delay, (8) a Special Interim Authority to verify compliance which will also ratify decisions made by the local authorities on the Islands, (9) the Executive and Legislative Councils to have Argentine members each drawn from the local community, (10) the flags of the UK, Argentina and the members of the Special Interim Authority to fly together at its HQ only, (11) residence and ownership of property to be equal between Islanders and Argentinians without prejudice to the rights of the inhabitants, (12) “December 31, 1982, will conclude the Interim Period during which the signatories shall complete negotiations on removal of the Islands from the list of non-self governing territories .. and on mutually agreed conditions for their definitive status, including due regard for the rights of the inhabitants and for the principle of territorial integrity ..”

Haig telegrams a message to Mendez regarding the need for a negotiated settlement and reminding him; “.. you will recall I indicated to you on Monday (19 April) that we should all be concerned about the possibility of imminent military action in the area of South Georgia.”

Buenos Aires requests NASA to provide satellite images of South Georgia on the 24th and 25th, under the LANDSAT agreement. NASA is also asked for images of the South Atlantic to the west of South Georgia on the 25th and 26th. Washington informs London, explaining that they have little alternative but to honour the agreement.

From Argentina's Washington Embassy, Ambassador Takacs contacts the US State department seeking information about an attack by British forces on South Georgia.

U.S. Embassy Buenos Aires, Confidential cable

The U.S. Embassy sends a report containing numerous fine tuned perceptions by a secret Argentine source of how the crisis will unfold in Argentina and the repercussions for Galtieri's future. Among other things, the source, "A well informed politician who has served in and generally supports the military government" speculates, "If there is a major incident in which large numbers of Argentines are killed ("A ship is sunk and 400 die") the public will be uncontrollable. Among their targets will be the U.S. Embassy, he said."

[lordroel]

Day 22 of the Falklands War, April 23rd 1982

in London, Defence Secretary John Nott supports the MoD's suggestion for an early deployment of Vulcan bombers to Ascension Island; “The Vulcans with air refuelling has a radius of action and bomb carrying capability to reach the Falkland Islands from Ascension Island which is 3,350 miles away. A force of 10 Victor tankers would be required to support a single Vulcan round trip from Ascension Island. There is enough fuel at Ascension to support this operation. The US Administration has today confirmed that there would be no objection to out deploying Vulcan aircraft to Ascension...”

In Buenos Aires, the Swiss envoy is asked to deliver a warning to the Argentine Government. “In announcing the establishment of a Maritime Exclusion zone around the Falkland Islands, Her Majesty's Government made it clear that this measure was without prejudice to the right of the United Kingdom to take whatever additional measures may be needed in the exercise of its right of self-defence under article '51 of the United Nations Charter. In this connection, Her Majesty's Government now wishes to make clear that any approach on the part of Argentine warships, including submarines, naval auxiliaries, or military aircraft which could amount to a threat to interfere with the mission of British Forces in the South Atlantic will encounter the appropriate response. All Argentine aircraft including civil aircraft engaging in surveillance of these British Forces will be regarded as hostile and are liable to be dealt with accordingly.”

A copy of the warning is passed to the Secretary-General of the United Nations.

At the UN, Sir Anthony Parsons considers another approach to the Security Council. “Recent conversations which I have had confirm that the longer we can keep out of the Council the better. The Non-Aligned members are already feeling slightly uneasy that a combination of our tactics and Panamanian/Argentine clumsiness led them to support a Resolution which contained nothing about the Argentine case on sovereignty. I have also had reliable confirmation that, if we use force, and particularly if we inflict casualties, there will be an immediate return to the Council … and that we will be seriously isolated. .. If the Haig mission collapses, someone is bound to call the Council fairly soon and there will be precisely those calls on us which we wish to avoid, eg. the suspension of military preparations combined with some time-consuming and ineffective mechanism such as the Secretary-General's good offices. All the above reinforces my conviction that we should for the moment continue to soldier on here for as long as we can,... avoiding recourse to the Council..”

Special forces are landed again on the Fortuna Glacier during a lull in the blizzard. HMS Antrim and HMS Plymouth rendezvous with HMS Brilliant. HMS Endurance remains near South Georgia to stay in touch with the observation parties. Commander Young on HMS Antrim hears on the BBC World Service that a British fleet is approaching South Georgia. Endurance picks up emissions from a submarine's radar and issues a warning that an Argentine vessel is in the area of South Georgia. Britain's two tankers withdraw to the south.

From London, Defence Secretary Nott orders the British submarine HMS Splendid, to patrol north-west of the Falklands in the area that Argentina's aircraft carrier was reported to be on the 21st.

British made Tiger Cat missiles and 105mm howitzers, unloaded by ship the night before, are in place around Stanley airport. Covert photos by Falkland Islanders are taken to help the British task force (see photo below).