Commons Sense

House of Commons · General Debate

Republic of Somaliland (Recognition)

04 July 2023 · 1 other contributor

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 republic of somaliland (recognition) in the House of Commons. Other MPs contributed to the debate.

Key points

  • Mr Williamson moved a Bill to require the Government to recognise formally the Republic of Somaliland.
  • He emphasised Somaliland's historical significance, including its independence and the genocide it endured under union with Somalia.
  • Mr Williamson urged recognition to reward Somaliland's efforts towards democracy and to enhance its role globally.

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

Mr Williamson moved that leave be given to bring in a Bill to require His Majesty’s Government to recognise formally the Republic of Somaliland; to make provision in connection with the establishing of diplomatic relations with the Republic of Somaliland; and for connected purposes. He emphasised the historical significance of Somaliland's independence, the genocide it suffered under union with Somalia, and its progress since 1991 in meeting democratic standards expected by international bodies such as Britain. Mr Williamson urged the Government to recognise Somaliland to reward its efforts towards democracy and to enable it to play a more significant role on the world stage.

Other contributors (1)
  • Gavin Williamson Con Stone, Great Wyrley and Penkridge

    Mr Williamson highlighted that Somaliland declared independence from Somalia in 1991 after suffering a genocide under union with Somalia. He mentioned the country's democratic processes, including elections and judicial systems, which have been praised by other countries like Britain but not officially recognised. Mr Williamson argued that recognition would reward Somaliland for its efforts towards democracy and encourage further development.

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