§ Mr. BattleTo ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs how the Government intend to vote on the UN Security Council resolution 1487, moved by the United States, relating to the renewal of the mandate of the International Criminal Court; and if he will make a statement. [176433]
§ Mr. RammellUN Security Council resolutions 1487 (2003) and 1422 (2002) provided a 12-month exemption from ICC investigation for UN peacekeepers who are citizens of states which are not parties to the ICC Statute. Both resolutions are consistent with the ICC Statute.
59WAlthough we understand US concerns about the ICC and their reasons for wanting the resolution rolled-over for a further 12 months, we do not share them. However, we recognise that those concerns are still firmly held by the US with possibly serious implications for UN Security Council-mandated operations. The Government attach the utmost importance to maintaining the effectiveness and efficiency of United Nations peacekeeping operations. They are therefore ready to support a roll-over of UNSCR 1487 while urging the US to recognise that a further resolution next year will not be necessary.
The UK is firmly committed to the ICC. We are one of the court's strongest supporters. We continue to work for an effective court and to encourage other states to become parties to it.