§ Lord Watson of Richmondasked Her Majesty's Government:
Why the British Embassy in Madagascar is to be closed. [HL665]
§ Baroness Symons of Vernham DeanAs I set out in my Written Statement on 15 December 2004 (Official Report, cols. WS 84-88) we are making changes to our overseas network to reflect changing demands and challenges and to ensure the UK has a cost-effective and flexible network of overseas representation. This involves the closure of several diplomatic posts, including the British Embassy in Antananarivo.
133WAThis is in no way a reflection on the current government of Madagascar or on the quality of our bilateral relations. We will work with the Government of Madagascar to establish alternative forms of British representation.