HC Deb 30 January 1956 vol 548 c603
37. Mr. Parkin

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs what official proposals have been made by the Turkish Government to increase the Turkish civilian population of Cyprus; and what was the reply of Her Majesty's Government.

Mr. Nutting

The answer to the first part of the Question is "None." The second part of the Question does not therefore arise.

Mr. Parkin

Is the Minister aware that an article including the proposals and appearing in the Daily Telegraphhas been reprinted and circulated by the Turkish authorities? Will the Minister make it clear that Her Majesty's Government would give no support to these proposals, which would only be a potential source of further trouble?

Mr. Nutting

As far as Her Majesty's Government are concerned, we have no intention of supporting any proposal for an increase of the Turkish civilian population by other than natural means.

Mr. M. Lindsay

Is my right hon. Friend aware that the opinion of the Daily Telegraphas a reliable newspaper is now hardly worth quoting?

Mr. Nutting

That is not a matter involving the responsibility of the Foreign Office.