HC Deb 13 March 1957 vol 566 cc1106-7
8. Mr. Hector Hughes

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies what steps he intends to take, and when, to facilitate the discussion between the Government and representative Cypriots, in either Cyprus or London, of Lord Radcliffe's draft of a self-governing constitution: and if he will include in such steps an invitation to Archbishop Makarios, an easing of emergency regulations, an offer to release detainees, and an offer of clemency to those now under arms in Cyprus against the British Government.

64. Mrs. L. Jeger

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies what steps he has now taken to open negotiations on the Radcliffe Report with representative Cypriots; and when he expects discussions to begin.

Mr. Lennox-Boyd

With regard to discussions with Cypriots, including Archbishop Makarios, I have nothing to add to what my hon. Friend and I said in the debate on 19th February. With regard to the steps suggested in the Question by the hon. and learned Member for Aberdeen, North (Mr. Hector Hughes), the Governor has since 19th December eased certain emergency regulations and has released two groups of detainees. He is ready to take further steps in this direction as soon as circumstances allow.

Mr. Hughes

Whilst thanking the Minister for that constructive reply, may I ask, as he has had several recent successes in other Colonies to his credit, if he will not make a constructive effort on the lines suggested? Even if Archbishop Makarios is connected with violence, will the Minister not follow a precedent like that of Field Marshal Smuts, whose violence was forgotten, for the purpose of promoting confidence and peace?

Mr. Lennox-Boyd

I am grateful to the hon. and learned Member for the tribute he paid to me, but such success as I have achieved has been on the basis of recognising the importance of preserving law and order.

Captain Pilkington

Has my right hon. Friend seen paragraphs in the American newspaper Time, which is notoriously hostile to this country, which repeat disgraceful accusations against the behaviour of the British in Cyprus? Will he see that our information services counter this sort of unscrupulous propaganda.

Mr. Speaker

I do not think the Minister can be held responsible for what appears in an American magazine.

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