Written question asked by Joan Walley (Labour) on Friday, 3 October 2008, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Monday, 6 October 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 his policy is on (a) the EU granting advanced status to Morocco and (b) the political process in the Western Sahara.

Answer: The UK welcomes closer co-operation between the EU and Morocco, including the proposal for an advanced status agreement currently under discussion between EU member states, the European Commission and Morocco. These discussions cover a range of issues, including economic and commercial issues, justice and security, regional co-operation, cultural and educational co-operation and human rights. The issue of Western Sahara, while not discussed within the context of the advanced status, remains part of the political dialogue between the EU and Morocco, which will be strengthened as part of the advanced status. Western Sahara will also be discussed as part of the political dialogue at the next Association Council in October.The UK continues to believe that progress towards a negotiated solution to the dispute in Western Sahara providing for the self-determination of the people of Western Sahara, is best achieved under the auspices of the UN. To this end and in accordance with UN Security Council Resolution 1813 of 30 April, the UK fully supports the efforts of the UN Secretary-General and his staff and the negotiation process currently underway. We hope a further round of talks will take place later this year.

Secondary information

Type: Written question
Reference: 480 c240W; 223776
Session: 2007-08
Subjects: Politics and government EU external relations Morocco Western Sahara
Link: View this Written question on www.publications.parliament.uk