Commons Sense

House of Commons · Adjournment Debate

UK Government Recognition of Somaliland

18 January 2022 · 3 other contributors

Opened by Gavin Williamson Con Stone, Great Wyrley and Penkridge

Foreign Affairs

Summarised by AI from the official record, so it can contain mistakes.

Read the full transcript on Parliament.uk

At a glance

Gavin Williamson raised concerns about uk government recognition of somaliland in the House of Commons. A government minister responded. Other MPs also contributed.

Key points

  • Gavin Williamson highlighted Somaliland's history of independence in 1960 and its aspirations for recognition since 1991.
  • The minister acknowledged Somaliland's democratic progress and economic achievements, noting UK support through investments.
  • The minister reiterated the UK's position that recognition of Somaliland is a matter between Somaliland and Somalia.

How the debate unfolded

MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said.

Opened the debate

Gavin Williamson Con Stone, Great Wyrley and Penkridge

In this debate, Gavin Williamson highlighted the history of Somaliland's independence in 1960 and subsequent union with Somalia. He emphasised the difficulties faced by Somaliland after the union and its aspirations for independence since 1991. Williamson praised Somaliland’s progress in democracy, education, and trade while stressing the importance of UK support through recognition and investment. He also called on the Government to address practical issues such as travel restrictions for British-Somaliland dual nationals and to improve vaccine distribution channels directly to Somaliland.

Other contributors (3)
  • Stephen Doughty Lab Cardiff South and Penarth

    Doughty acknowledged the progress made in Somaliland, including its parliamentary elections and education system. He highlighted the need for better links between UK cities and Somaliland, noting practical issues like travel advice and dual nationality difficulties.

  • Jim Shannon All Party Strangford

    Shannon emphasised the importance of religious freedom in any recognition process, specifically mentioning concerns about Christians facing persecution. He stressed that human rights must be central to UK-Somaliland relations and encouraged improving ties through mutual trade and legal support.

  • Kerry McCarthy Lab Bristol East

    McCarthy praised Somaliland's democratic process and women’s participation in elections. She called for better representation of women MPs, suggesting the UK should do more to assist through organisations like the Westminster Foundation for Democracy.

Government Response

Chris Heaton-Harris

The Minister acknowledged the historical and contemporary importance of Somaliland’s relationship with the UK, praising its democratic process and economic progress. He detailed ongoing UK support including investments in Berbera port, road infrastructure, and education programmes for girls. The minister reiterated the government's position that recognition remains a matter between Somaliland and Somalia but expressed commitment to maintaining close partnership while supporting security, trade, development, and climate resilience efforts.

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