Lord Cameron visits troops on Falklands and pays tribute to those who died in 1982 conflict

The Foreign Secretary has delivered a message to the people of the Falkland Islands during his official visit and has reflected on the improvements to equipment while visiting troops there.

Former prime minister Lord Cameron became the first foreign secretary to visit the island in 30 years and met serving personnel from the British Army, Royal Navy, and Royal Air Force, as well as their families, at the Mount Pleasant Complex.

"It's important to remember the service and sacrifice of so many that have gone before, particularly in 1982," said Lord Cameron as he paid tribute to the memory of Falklands War veterans.

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During his visit, Lord Cameron was asked what his message was for the people of the Falklands. 

Speaking to BFBS Falkland Islands presenter Tamsin Robson, Lord Cameron said: "The message is very clear, which is for as long as you want to remain part of the British family, and we hope you do, for as long as you want that, then your sovereignty is never in question and never on the table.

"And we'll do everything we can to support and help and work with you and to make a continued success of this great community that you have built, and our building here."

During his trip to the island, Lord Cameron paid tribute to the memory of soldiers who gave their lives in the conflict which lasted from 2 April until 14 June 1982. 

The undeclared war between Argentina and Great Britain claimed 255 British lives, 649 Argentinians and three Falkland islanders.

Lord Cameron paid respect to their memory during his visit to the island.

When asked about what about military life had sparked his interest during his visit, Lord Cameron said: "I'm always impressed by the kit that we have and the upgrades that have been made, including from my time as prime minister.

"For instance, the A400M is a hugely capable aircraft. We've now got a number of those, including here, and hearing about some of our air defence capabilities is interesting.

"And, of course, the Typhoon, which I spent a lot of time as prime minister trying to sell them to other countries, often successfully."