Prior to 1971 all requests for philatelic items from the Falkland Islands, South Georgia and British Antarctic Territory were dealt with by Stanley Post Office staff. Due to the gradual increase in orders, a person was employed part time to process all philatelic requests. Betty Biggs took over this task in 1973, and in 1975 she suggested the possibility of starting a standing order system.

In view of the interest that was suddenly being shown in the stamps of the three Territories, the ensuing years saw the number of Bureau staff increase to ten. The eventual computerisation of the standing order system in 1984 resulted in a gradual streamlining in staffing levels to the present complement of four.

During the 1982 conflict, the Bureau's stock of stamps and FDC's were left intact and the many thousands of British forces which were brought to the islands with, and after, the Liberation made 1982, 1983 and 1984 "peak" years for the Bureau.

Locally business has now levelled out, although international interest is still very evident and the strict stamp issuing policy has kept the Falkland Islands among the top 10 of collectors countries.

Information about Standing Orders as well as stamps and other postal items for sale are available from:

The Philatelic Bureau, Post Office, Stanley, Falkland Islands. (Fax number +500-27160)

See also the information about the Falkland Islands Philatelic Bureau on their new website with price lists and order forms.

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