To ask Her Majesty's Government further to the Written Answer by Lord Malloch-Brown on 2 June (WA 71), why they do not recognise Somaliland as an independent state. [HL4068]

The UK has signed up to an EU common position and endorsed many UN Security Council resolutions that refer to the territorial integrity and unity of Somalia. We believe that, through dialogue between the Somaliland authorities and the Transitional Federal Government of Somalia, the Somali people themselves should determine the most appropriate future arrangements. Beyond that we believe that any process of international recognition must begin in Africa and countries in the region should take the lead in recognising any new arrangements.

We acknowledge that Somaliland has achieved relative peace and stability. Nevertheless, we continue to apply the recognition criteria specified in the Written Answer of 16 November 1989 (Official Report, col. 494). These criteria are more likely to be met if countries in the region themselves recognise Somaliland.

We remain committed to supporting development in Somaliland and continue to engage with its authorities in a range of areas.