HC Deb 28 July 1958 vol 592 cc922-3
9. Mrs. L. Jeger

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether he is still in touch with the North Atlantic Treaty Organisation Council about the future of Cyprus; and with what current results.

Commander Noble

Her Majesty's Government's plan for Cyprus was explained to the North Atlantic Council before it was made public. As my right hon. Friend the Prime Minister then said, it is a great support to the Government in discharging their heavy responsibilities in this matter to have the goodwill and understanding of the North Atlantic Council. There has not been further occasion to discuss it in the Council since then, but as my right hon. Friend the Colonial Secretary told the House on 26th June, we shall continue to take full advantage of the opportunities for consultation and conciliation which the North Atlantic Treaty Organisation machinery offers.

Mrs. Jeger

Can the right hon. and gallant Gentleman say whether N.A.T.O. has any continuing status in this difficult question? If not, would not the Government consider now bringing the matter before the United Nations?

Commander Noble

No. As my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for the Colonies has said, we do not think that this is the moment to bring this matter before the United Nations. Besides the Council, there are opportunities in N.A.T.O. for informal talks on these sort of matters.

Mr. J. Griffiths

Since the Government sought and secured the aid of N.A.T.O., may I ask whether they will bring their influence to bear on the two Governments concerned to seek the aid of N.A.T.O. to bring about what we all desire, namely, a cessation of violence, so that discussions about Cyprus can begin?

Commander Noble

This matter has been discussed in the North Atlantic Council, and it is possible for informal talks to take place at the same time.

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