Fallon: Jeremy Corbyn Greatest Threat To The Falklands

The Defence Secretary Michael Fallon claims the Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn poses a greater threat to the future of the Falkland Islands than Argentina.

Mr Fallon insisting that Mr Corbyn's declaration, that he wants a dialogue with Argentina to reach an agreement over the Islands, would go against rights of those living there

He said: "The biggest threat at the moment isn’t Argentina, it’s Jeremy Corbyn and the Labour Party who want to override the wishes of the islanders."

His comments come during the first visit to the British Overseas Territory by a UK defence secretary in 14 years.

His view is not though shared by the majority of those living there, 8000 miles from Westminster, with the Falkland Islands Legislative Assembly insisting Argentina remains the greatest threat to their way of life. 

Mr Fallon has however reaffirmed the Government's commitment to the islands and their residents, announcing that the MoD will be spending £180 million improving defences over the next 10 years.

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Speaking to the BBC Mr Fallon dismissed claims his visit could inflame tensions with Buenos Aires, saying that he hoped relations could be improved following the departure of Christina de Fernandez Kirchner and the arrival of President Mauricio Macri.

As well as sight-seeing and meeting some of the 1000 or so service personnel who help protect the outpost Mr Fallon laid a wreath in the Islands' capital Port Stanley - paying his respects to the 255 British servicemen who died during the 1982 war.

More: Everything You Need To Know About The British Forces In The Falkland Islands