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Written question asked by John Grogan (Labour) on Wednesday, 3 September 2008, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Wednesday, 10 September 2008. It was answered by Kim Howells (Labour) on Monday, 6 October 2008 on behalf of the Foreign and Commonwealth Office.

Western Sahara: Politics and Government

Question
To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what assessment he has made of the likelihood of a referendum in Western Sahara on independence; and if he will make a statement.
Answer

[holding answer 10 September 2008]: The UK continues to support the efforts of the UN Secretary-General and his staff to assist the parties to achieve a just, lasting and mutually acceptable political solution which will provide for the self determination of the people of the Western Sahara.The UN Security Council (UNSC) adopted UNSC resolution 1813 on 30 April 2008 which extended the mandate of the UN Mission for the Referendum in Western Sahara. There are no plans for a referendum to be held in the near future. However, the resolution also called for both sides to maintain their commitment to the ongoing negotiations under the auspices of the UN Secretary-General. The UK welcomes the four rounds of talks held between the parties and hopes that a further round will be held later this year.

Secondary information

Type
Written question
Reference
223125; 480 c240W
Session
2007-08
Related items
Subjects
Politics and government Western Sahara
Link
View this Written question on www.publications.parliament.uk