David Burrowes, MP for Enfield Southgate, in north London, applied this week for a parliamentary debate on Cyprus following the 40th anniversary of the continuing Turkish occupation and division of the island.
He also tabled written parliamentary questions to the Prime Minister and new Foreign Secretary Philip Hammond asking about the UK Government`s latest assessment of the progress to reach a solution to the Cyprus problem. Burrowes also asked the Prime Minister for an update on steps taken to support the return of the Turkish occupied town of Famagusta, following the petition submitted last December to Downing Street.
Both questions were answered by Minister for Europe David Lidington, who praised the “substantive negotiations” between Greek and Turkish Cypriots. “Both sides now have a much better sense of each other’s positions and concerns, and they have begun seeking the common ground in a number of areas. The parties have expressed a wish to intensify their efforts in the months ahead,” stated the minister’s answer (dated 22 July).
Lidington welcomed the leaders’ commitment to reach a comprehensive settlement as soon as possible. “Their level of ambition, Turkey’s engagement, and the recognition of the political and economic benefits all mean that a successful solution is possible through this round of talks. No-one should underestimate the scale of the potential challenges ahead, but there has been to better time in recent years to achieve a lasting solution,” he added.
The minister said London was encouraging the two sides to begin building public support for a comprehensive settlement. Referring to the UK’s role, he noted that he recently invited the two chief negotiators to London and that he was “struck” by their “seriousness and determination” to reach an agreement.
On the Famagusta question, the Minister for Europe replied that the UK Government fully supports all relevant Security Council resolutions, including Resolutions 550 and 789 which address the future of Varosha (the fenced off area of Famagusta town, on the east of the island). “I remain convinced that, ultimately, a comprehensive settlement is the best chance of resolving this complex issue,” commented Lidington.
David Burrowes MP said: “We must do all we can after 40 years of a divided island to support a just solution for the benefit of all Cypriots. I am calling for a debate and have tabled questions in Parliament this week to ensure that the Prime Minister and new Foreign Secretary and British Parliament make it a priority to support a solution. I have also kept up the pressure on the key issue of the return of Famagusta. The best way we can remember the 40th anniversary is to make sure we don`t have a 41st year without justice and freedom for Cyprus.”
Cyprus has been divided since Turkish troops invaded and occupied its northern third, in the summer of 1974. The latest round of UN-led peace talks is currently underway between the leaders of the island`s two communities, Cyprus President Nicos Anastasiades and Dervis Eroglu. They meet periodically while the negotiators of the two sides meet more regularly to help make headway towards a negotiated settlement to reunite the country under a federal roof, in line with EU rules.
