Falkland islanders are to hold their first ever vote on whether they want to remain British. The historic referendum – set for early next year –is intended to send a clear message to Argentina to keep its hands off. Yesterday’s announcement by the Falkland Islands Government came as commemorative events took place to mark the 30th anniversary of their liberation from Argentina’s military junta. Three decades after Margaret Thatcher sent 27,000 troops and more than 100 ships to repel the Argentinian invaders, Buenos Aires continues to set its sights on claiming the territory it calls Las Malvinas. Scroll down for video
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Island government hopes to send message to Argentina that they want to remain British
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Vote comes 30 years after 27,000 troops repelled Argentinian invaders
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Vote set to take place in the first half of next year
'I have no doubt that the people of the @placeholder wish for the islands to remain a self-governing overseas territory of the United Kingdom.