HL Deb 03 April 2003 vol 646 c146WA
Lord Tomlinson

asked Her Majesty's Government:

Whether there will be a reorganisation of the United Kingdom's diplomatic representation in Africa. [HL2332]

Baroness Symons of Vernham Dean

Changing strategic priorities require the Foreign and Commonwealth Office constantly to adapt and amend its pattern of representation overseas. In order to free resources to strengthen the UK's diplomatic network in other parts of the world now more critical for UK interests, Her Majesty's Government have decided to make the following adjustments to our diplomatic representation in West Africa. With effect from early summer, the embassy in Bamako will be closed. We intend to retain a UK office there. Given the importance the UK attaches to stability and peace in the Mano River region, we intend to open a one-person office in Monrovia later this year, and upgrade our office in Conakry to an embassy.