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Written question asked by Andy Slaughter (Labour) on Monday, 30 June 2025, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Thursday, 3 July 2025 (named day). It was answered by Hamish Falconer (Labour) on Wednesday, 9 July 2025 on behalf of the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office.

Western Sahara: Overseas Investment

Question

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, if he will ensure that Polisario is consulted on investment in Western Sahara by the Morocco Business Alliance.

Answer

On 1 June, the Foreign Secretary endorsed Morocco's autonomy proposal as the most credible, viable and pragmatic basis for a lasting resolution of the Western Sahara conflict. In that context, we continue to support the UN-led process to achieve a just, lasting and mutually acceptable solution, based on compromise, which conforms with the purposes and principles of the UN Charter, including the principle of respect for self-determination.

In the UK-Morocco joint communiqué, the UK welcomed Morocco's willingness to engage in good faith with all relevant parties. We have agreed to work together with Morocco to unlock new investment opportunities and have committed to establishing a Morocco Business Alliance, driven by the private sector.

Senior UK officials meet regularly with Sahrawi representatives to discuss UK policy on Western Sahara, including trade. It is for companies to take their own decisions on whether to do business in Western Sahara, as elsewhere.

Secondary information

Type
Written question
Reference
63536
Session
2024-26
Subjects
Overseas investment Morocco Western Sahara Polisario Front
Link
View this Written question on www.parliament.uk