§ Mr. BattleTo ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what support is being given by Her Majesty's Government to the Sahrawi refugees in the western Sahara.
§ Mr. Douglas HoggWe have not provided any bilateral financial assistance to western Saharan refugees. However, we have given our full support to the United Nations Secretary-General's settlement plan, which envisages the holding of a referendum early next year. This will enable the Saharawi to determine their own future. We have contributed, both in terms of finance and personnel, to the United Nations mission (MINURSO) responsible for the organisation and conduct of the referendum.
§ Mr. BattleTo ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs if he will make a statement on the situation in the western Sahara in respect of the progress on the United Nations peace plan; and what action is being taken by the United Kingdom Government to support the peace plan.
§ Mr. Douglas HoggI refer the hon. Member to the reply I gave to my right hon. Friend the Member for Blackpool, South (Sir P. Blaker) on 5 November, column27.