§ 19. Mr. Wallasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies to what extent in his discussions about the future of Cyprus consideration has been given to the federation of British, Greek and Turkish sectors of the island under a federal island government, and without change in sovereignty.
§ Mr. Lennox-BoydIn the discussions that I have held and am holding no possible constitutional solution has been excluded.
§ Mr. WallWould not my right hon. Friend agree that the federal scheme obviates much of the danger of the partition scheme and could give the three countries concerned—Britain, Turkey and Greece—some measure of what each of them desires?
§ Mr. Lennox-BoydI am sure that all people in the many countries who follow this business with great care will listen to the statement of my hon. Friend.
§ Mr. CallaghanCould not the right hon. Gentleman give us a little more indication than he has given in the first part of his Answer of the people with whom he is now discussing the future of Cyprus? Is he aware that there is a feeling in the island that, because of the fall of the Greek Government, Her Majesty's Government are taking no initiative whatsoever? If he can remove that feeling by indicating what discussions are now going on, and with whom, he may be able to regain a little of the initiative.
§ Mr. Lennox-BoydI really do not believe that that would help forward the business which we all have at heart.
§ Mr. CallaghanWhat does the Colonial Secretary want to achieve in this matter? Is not it a common purpose to endeavour to maintain peace in the island? Is not he aware of the outbreaks of violence that have taken place in the last fortnight? Is not he further aware that that is partly due to the feeling that Her Majesty's Government are taking no action because of the fall of the Greek Government? Is it not, therefore, in his own interests as well as in the interests of the British people and of the people 1413 of Cyprus, that the right hon. Gentleman should give us a little more information than he has given in the first part of his Answer about the people with whom he is discussing and what he is discussing?
§ Mr. Lennox-BoydI am very grateful for the hon. Gentleman's intentions, but if I responded as he wishes I do not believe that the result of his intentions would be fulfilled.
§ Mr. F. Noel-BakerIn view of the very unsatisfactory nature of the Answer, I beg to give notice that, if we cannot get the information in any other way, I will try to raise the matter on the Adjournment before the Easter Recess.