HL Deb 19 June 2003 vol 649 cc135-6WA
Lord Stone of Blackheath

asked Her Majesty's Government:

Whether there has been a cessation of the diamond embargo against Sierra Leone. [HL3460]

Baroness Symons of Vernham Dean

With the support of Her Majesty's Government, the UN Security Council has allowed the remaining sanctions under UNSCR 1446(2002) against the import of uncertified rough diamonds from Sierra Leone to terminate with effect from 5 June 2003. The resolution extended the embargo against the direct or indirect import of rough diamonds without a certificate of origin, controlled by the Government of Sierra Leone. This is in recognition of the peace in Sierra Leone and the efforts that the Government of Sierra Leone have made towards securing their diamond-mining areas and in pursuing a successful diamond policy. Sierra Leone is now a participant of the Kimberley process.