Gabon and Congo

HC Deb 09 July 1991 vol 194 cc300-1W

Mr. Carrington

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what arrangements he proposes to make for the protection of British interests in Gabon and Congo after the closure of British embassies in those countries.

Mrs. Chalker

Following the decision earlier this year to close our embassies in Libreville and Brazzaville, the Governments of Gabon and Congo have been informed of our intentions and both embassies will close by the end of July. The protection and promotion of British interests in these countries will in future be the responsibility of the British embassy in Kinshasa. Accreditation will shortly be sought for our ambassador in Kinshasa to be concurrently ambassador (non-resident) in Gabon and Congo.