Written question asked by Lord Laird (Ulster Unionist Party), in the House of Lords. It was answered by Lord Howell of Guildford (Conservative) on Monday, 21 June 2010.

Somalia

Question: To ask Her Majesty’s Government, further to the Written Answer by Lord Howell of Guildford on 7 June (WA 27), whether Somaliland has fulfilled the normal criteria for recognition as an independent state.

Answer: While based on the technical criteria set out in the Written Answer dated 16 November 1989 (Official Report, col. 494), each case must be assessed on its own particular facts. In the case of Somaliland, there are a number of relevant factors, including UN resolutions and the UN-sponsored peace process, as well as the positions of Africa Union member states. We therefore do not currently recognise Somaliland as an independent state. However, the Government will keep the policy on recognition of Somaliland under review in line with these factors.

Secondary information

Type: Written question
Reference: 398; 719 c155-6WA
Session: 2010-12
Related items: {value: 93522, field_name: "type_ses"}
Thursday, 16 November 1989
Written questions
House of Commons; Somalia
Monday, 7 June 2010
Written questions
House of Lords
Subjects: Recognition of states Somaliland
Link: View this Written question on www.publications.parliament.uk