“In recent months, however, the Italians have claimed to be increasingly concerned that the Germans may sell SUT torpedoes to Argentina, even though we have repeatedly told them of the assurance the Germans have given us ‘at a very senior level’ (meaning Chancellor Kohl).
“We see a danger that unless we can convince the Italians that the Germans will not supply the torpedoes, they may break ranks and sell, for fear of losing the business to German companies.”
The Foreign Office wanted a further assurance from Chancellor Kohl in order to keep the Italians on side.
The document states that German police had raided the Hamburg offices of the Argentine Naval Commission amid accusations of illegal arms trading with Argentina during and after the conflict.
A letter drafted by Mrs Thatcher to Chancellor Kohl said she had enjoyed discussions with him in Tokyo, adding: “One subject which I had wanted to raise is Argentina and its continuing interest in acquiring modern arms.”