§ 42. Major Wallasked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs how far Athens radio broadcasts are still encouraging sedition among the people of Cyprus; and how far recent action taken by the Greek Government in response to his representations have effectively modified the tone of these broadcasts.
§ The Joint Under-Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs (Mr. R. H. Turton)I am sorry to have to reply that these broadcasts are still most objectionable and at times certainly constitute incitement to sedition and violence. Her Majesty's Government have made frequently representations to the Greek Government, who control the Athens radio and therefore cannot evade full responsibility for what is put out. But so far there has not been any substantial or enduring improvement.
The Greek Government have assured us that they value, as much as we do, the old friendship between our two countries. I hope they will therefore recognise that these broadcasts are clearly inconsistent with our ties of friendship and alliance.
§ Major WallHas Athens radio tended to encourage or discourage the recent outbreaks of terrorism in the island?
§ Mr. TurtonWe have made it plain to the Greek Government that these broadcasts cannot be dissociated from the recent outbreak of terrorism in Cyprus.
§ Mr. K. RobinsonIs the Minister aware that the mistaken policies and ill-chosen words of his right hon. Friends in charge of colonial affairs are far more responsible for the unrest in Cyprus than any broadcasts from Athens?
§ Mr. TurtonI am not so aware, and I deprecate the fact that the hon. Member is trying to aid and abet Communist terrorism in Cyprus.