Commons Sense

House of Commons · Adjournment Debate

Western Sahara

30 October 2024 · 1 other contributor

Opened by Andrew Murrison Con South West Wiltshire

Foreign Affairs

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

Read the full transcript on Parliament.uk

At a glance

Andrew Murrison raised concerns about western sahara in the House of Commons. A government minister responded. Other MPs also contributed.

Key points

  • Andrew Murrison, Conservative MP for South West Wiltshire, raised concerns about the UK's stance on Western Sahara, criticising it as an outlier in international opinion.
  • The Minister, Hamish Falconer from Labour, acknowledged Murrison's points and emphasised the UK's commitment to supporting UN-led efforts for resolving the Western Sahara issue.
  • Falconer highlighted that the UK supports MINURSO activities and endorses the principle of self-determination as outlined in UN Security Council resolutions.

How the debate unfolded

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

Opened the debate

Andrew Murrison Con South West Wiltshire

Andrew Murrison, Conservative MP for South West Wiltshire, raised concerns about the UK's stance on Western Sahara. He emphasised the historical and strategic importance of Morocco to the UK, criticising the current British position as an outlier in international opinion, particularly regarding Western Sahara’s governance. He urged the Government to recognise Moroccan sovereignty over Western Sahara to align with other nations like France and the US, thereby strengthening economic ties and security cooperation. Murrison highlighted successful developments in areas such as human rights progress, regional stability, and trade opportunities between Morocco and potential allies. However, he noted that UK's hesitation hampers bilateral relations and economic benefits due to institutional inertia.

Other contributors (1)
  • Unnamed MP Not Provided Not Provided

    Acknowledged the importance of avoiding a vacuum in Western Sahara where ill-disposed actors can flourish.

Government Response

Hamish Falconer

The Minister, Hamish Falconer from Labour, acknowledged Murrison's contributions and emphasised the UK’s commitment to supporting UN-led efforts for a resolution on Western Sahara. He reiterated that the UK supports MINURSO activities and endorses self-determination principles outlined in UN Security Council resolutions. The Minister defended Foreign Office officials as dedicated servants of the nation, advising Ministers on policy rather than deciding it themselves. Falconer highlighted ongoing humanitarian support for Sahrawi refugees in Tindouf camps and underscored the importance of encouraging constructive engagement with the political process to achieve a sustainable solution agreeable to all parties.

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