the problem is cash , cash and cash - there isn't any in the piggy bank
We should have retained MPA capacity but the RAF & the RN preferred to keep other capability - same arguments as in the late 1930's - MPA is a bit of a Cinderella to FJ jockies and Admirals RN
Not sure an MPA would help in the Falklands tho' - a decent set of anti-ship and long range AA missiles would be a better bet I suspect