Western Sahara

HC Deb 16 July 2002 vol 389 cc180-1W

Mr. Gummer

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what his policy is on sovereignty over Western Sahara. [69977]

Mr. Mike O'Brien

The UK—in common with most other countries—regards the sovereignty of Western Sahara as undetermined pending UN efforts to find a solution to this dispute.

We supported UN Security Council Resolution 1359. This reiterated full support for the ongoing efforts of MINURSO to implement the Settlement Plan and agreements by the parties to hold a free, fair and impartial referendum for the self-determination of the people of the Western Sahara.

It also endorsed the efforts of the UN Secretary-General to invite all the parties to meet directly, or through proximity talks under the auspices of his Personal Envoy, James Baker, to discuss any proposal in order to arrive at a mutually acceptable agreement.