Britain expels all Gaddafi diplomats, recognises TNC

The UK has expelled all Libyan Embassy staff in London and has formally recognised the rebel-led National Transitional Council (NTC) as the country's governing authority.

27 July 2011, 12:00am

1 min read

Eight members of Colonel Muammar Gaddafi's representatives based at the west London embassy have been asked to leave Britain.

In their place, Foreign Secretary William Hague said the UK would recognise and deal with the NTC as the "soul governmental authority in Libya".

"This decision reflects the National Transitional Council's increasing legitimacy, competence and success in reaching out ot Libyans across the country," he said.

The move comes after Lockerbie bomber Abdelbaset Al Megrahi appeared on Libyan state TV at a pro-government rally yesterday .

Al Megrahi, who has prostate cancer, was released from Greenock Prison by the Scottish government in August 2009 on compassionate grounds.

He had not been expected to live beyond three months.

Priscilla Darmenia •

I am convinced so as not to step on anyone’s toes, Malta would be one of the last countries to give official recognition to the NTC

Reuben Sciberras •

I believe that the EU Countries should act with one mind and follow the UK’S example and expel all pro Ghaddafi diplomats and the NTC be recognised by ALL the EU.