THE MP for Hendon Matthew Offord visited the Falkland Islands to experience military life.

Mr Offord took part in the Armed Forces Parliamentary Scheme which aims to promote a better understanding of military life amongst Members of Parliament.

As part of the scheme, which is funded through private and corporate donations, MPs are encouraged to work alongside service personnel and get involved in their duties.

Alongside the British Armed Forces based in the Falkland Islands, Mr Offord carried out a fire exercise, spent a night onboard HMS York as part of a sea defence exercise and experienced the search and rescue capability of the Royal Air Force.

He also visited the site of a minefield where there is estimated to be up to 25,000 land mines left by the Argentinean army in 1982.

Speaking about his trip, Mr Offord said: “Having travelled 8,000 miles I was surprised and delighted to meet a constituent from Daws Lane in Mill Hill. That demonstrates the value of such a visit as it allows me to speak 'in situ' with those who are away from home defending our country.

“The announcement by the Secretary of State to formalise the Military Covenant is something that will be welcomed by such people as they spoke to me about the difficulties of maintaining a family life while separated for months at a time.

"For many years I believe the Armed Forces were neglected by the Government and I am pleased that is now being addressed.”