Bristol, UK, June 24, 2006 (SL Times) – Members of the British House of Commons from a cross section of political parties are to launch next week a parliamentary group to support efforts made by the people of Somaliland to rebuild their country after years of civil unrest.

Since the former British Somaliland declared independence from Somalia in 1991, significant social developments have taken place to establish credible three democratic parties which embraced the notion of free and open elections.

British Somalilanders such as Abdul Karim Adan and Keyser Mohamed have strenuously lobbied their representatives in parliament for the formation of the UK parliamentary group on Somaliland.

At least two MPs from Wales such as Allen Michael and Julie Morgan as well as Bristolian MP Kerry McCarthy among others have sponsored the formation of the friends of Somaliland group in the British lower house of parliament.

UK citizens of Somaliland decent have been focal in soliciting the British government to support Somaliland.

Over 30 MPs are expected to attend the launch of the parliamentary group next Wednesday.

One of the main objectives of the group will be to advocate recognition for Somaliland. The parliamentarians will also use their political experience and knowledge to support the economic development of the country.

The MPs who are involved in this scheme represent constituencies across England and Wales who have a sizable Somali community.

Source: Somaliland Times