§ MR. STANLEY LEIGHTON (Shropshire, Oswestry)asked the Under Secretary of State for the Colonies, Whether it is true that the administration of Cyprus is a matter of increasing difficulty, owing to the financial condition of the Island and the heavy tribute payable to the Porte; and, whether any steps have been taken either to commute the Turkish tribute, or to relieve Cyprus of a burden from which she derives no benefit?
§ THE CHANCELLOR OF THE EXCHEQUER (Mr. GOSCHEN) (St. George's, Hanover Square)My answer to the first part of the hon. Member's Question is, Yes. But the hon. Member will bear in mind that the tribute payable 133 to the Porte results from an International agreement, and is not in our power to alter. In stating this I also answer the second part of the hon. Member's Question as to relieving Cyprus from the burden of the tribute. The annual sum of £92,000 must be paid to the Porte. Whether it may be possible to arrive at a financial arrangement for the commutation of the tribute is a question with regard to which I am not able at present to give a definite answer.