HC Deb 08 May 1957 vol 569 cc956-7
49. Mr. K. Robinson

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies if he will arrange for a Parliamentary mission to visit Cyprus.

Mr. Lennox-Boyd

I have this suggestion well in mind and will consider when such a visit might most usefully be arranged.

Mr. Robinson

I thank the Minister for that reply, but does he not agree that the previous objection raised, that the Governor could not hold himself responsible for the safety of such a delegation, no longer holds good. and does he not think that now is the moment when such a mission could most usefully perform its task?

Mr. Lennox-Boyd

Due to the activities of the Governor and the security forces, tension is, of course, remarkably reduced, but none the less, through our action in releasing Archbishop Makarios— which I believe was correct— the tension between the Greek and Turkish communities might possibly at some time flare up. I have to bear that in mind also in recommending whether the time is opportune or not. I have it very much in mind.