§ Jane GriffithsTo ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs if he will make a statement on the closure of the British embassy in Managua. [135017]
§ Mr. RammellThe British embassy in Managua will close by the end of March 2004. This decision was as a result of budgetary constraints which led us to review how we could maintain our diplomatic presence in Central America in a more cost-effective way. The Government remain committed to maintaining a substantive relationship with Nicaragua. I confirmed this to the Nicaraguan Foreign Minister when he visited London on 23 October. We are seeking agreement for the British ambassador to San Jose as non-resident 371W ambassador to Nicaragua. DFID will retain its presence in Nicaragua and the intention is that their Senior Representative will assume the role of Chargéd'Affaires.