§ Mr. CoxTo ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what discussions his Department is holding with Mr. Denktash on reasons for the arrest of newspaper editor Mr. Semer Levent in Northern Cyprus. [133815]
§ Mr. VazWe and key European partners have made it clear to the Turkish Cypriots at various levels that Mr. Levent's arrest, and any other measures which restrict journalists' freedom of speech, raises questions about their respect for human rights. It is encouraging that all those involved have now been released from custody. We and our EU partners will continue to monitor the situation.
§ Mr. CoxTo ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs if Sir David Hannay will hold discussions with Mr. Denktash on the arrests of trade union members in Northern Cyprus; and if he will make a statement. [133816]
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§ Mr. VazAs my hon. Friend will be aware, we monitor the situation in the north of Cyprus closely and we are not aware of any systematic harassment of trade union members. We understand that some trade union members were arrested in July but that these individuals were released shortly afterwards.