MercoPress. South Atlantic News Agency

A Falklands Royal visit possible in 2002 ? 20th anniversary of war.

It is not an impossibility that Queen Elizabeth 2nd could visit the Falklands next year to participate in celebrations to mark the 20th anniversary of the Liberation of the Islands, by British Forces, from Argentine occupation.

Falklands Councillor Lewis Clifton confirmed during a recent public meeting in Stanley that, a request has been made to the British Government to have a member of the Royal Family visit the Islands in 2002'. Another Councillor confided that it was hoped that Queen Elizabeth might accept an invitation given the importance of the celebrations on this occasion.

The Falkland Islands Government has set aside 100,000 pounds sterling (US$160,000) to finance the official, commemorative and social functions which are planned for the 20th anniversary of Liberation.

It seems inconceivable that Lady Margaret Thatcher who dispatched the British Task Force to the South Atlantic will not receive an invitation, and many Islanders will be bitterly disappointed if she is left out. Pressure is steadily growing to ensure that the former British Prime Minister will have an important role in the celebratory festivities. However the only possible explanation for her exclusion could be through protocol, should Queen Elizabeth 2nd accept an invitation. It would not be correct to have them both here at the same time, said one official. While Prince Charles, Prince Andrew, Princess Anne and the Duke of Edinburgh have visited the Islands, the population still await their much loved Queen and her presence in 2002 would be received with untold jubilation.

The Military prominent 'players' of the War are expected to be invited also, with Major General Sir Jeremy Moore, Commander of the Land Forces, and Major General Julian Thompson, who was declared, 'Man of the Match' by Major General Moore, heading the guest list.Brigadier Chris Keeble, who succeeded Colonel 'H' Jones V.C. after he was killed in action during the battle for Darwin is also expected in the Falklands next year.

While the official list of invitees is eagerly awaited, a visit by 300 British Paratroopers in November has already been planned and approved. The 1982 veterans fought at Darwin, Mt. Longdon and Wireless Ridge, and for many 2002 will provide an opportunity not only to join in the celebrations but to eliminate the 20 year old memories of War which still haunt many of them, as they suffer from post-traumatic stress. Island families are being asked to accommodate