Nicholas Soames: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what recent assessment he has made of the present state of political, cultural, trade and military relations with Morocco; and if he will make a statement. [137837]

Alistair Burt, Parliamentary Under Secretary of State: The UK has strong relations with Morocco. Morocco is engaged in a political reform process. A new constitution was approved in 2011 with an increased emphasis on human rights and democracy. The UK is supporting democratic reform in Morocco, in partnership with governments and civil society, through our Arab Partnership programme.

UK Ministers discuss a wide range of issues with their counterparts in Morocco. During my visit in June 2012, discussions focused on the ongoing reform process, opportunities for Maghreb states to develop their economies through regional integration and an increase in English language training. Increasing trade and investment with Morocco is also an important part of our relationship.

The British Council is active, teaching English and promoting links with British culture and the Ministry of Defence regularly reviews its relationship with all Maghreb states, building links through joint training and capacity building as appropriate.

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