§ LORD CARRINGTONMy Lords, perhaps I might now repeat the Answer to a Private Notice Question put to my right honourable friend the Secretary of State for Commonwealth Relations in another place. The Question was whether, in view of the widespread disturbances which occurred this morning in Cyprus, he would make a statement on the position of British nationals on the island. The Answer is as follows:
"For some time the Commander-in-Chief of Cyprus has had authority to arrange for the exacuation of Service dependants and other British nationals who are living outside the Sovereign Base Areas. Plans have been made for this purpose and the necessary air transport is held in readiness. In view of the renewed outbreak of intercommunal violence the Commander-in-Chief was reminded this morning that he has full discretion to proceed with the evacuation of British civilians should be consider that their safety requires it."
§ EARL ALEXANDER OF HILLSBOROUGHMy Lords, I am obliged to the noble Lord for getting the Answer that I was doubtful was going to be made. I must apologise for having made the interruption I did, but I had other information which led me to do that. May I say that we have been very concerned at the sudden transfer of heavy armed activity to the neighbourhood of Limassol; and I think the last part of the statement that has just been given to us is of importance. But I feel we can be satisfied that proper steps have been taken.
§ LORD CARRINGTONMy Lords, I am much obliged to the noble Earl. Her Majesty's Government share the concern that he has expressed at the deterioration of the situation in Cyprus, and hope that all parties will act with restraint.
§ LORD OGMOREMy Lords, I am grateful to the noble Lord for the statement he has made. I am quite sure that the Government have taken the right course.