§ Andrew MackinlayTo ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs whether(a) a 903W unity settlement and (b) an end to the occupation of Cyprus by Turkish armed forces is a prerequisite to advancing Turkey's EU candidacy status; and if he will make a statement. [163245]
§ Mr. MacShaneA Cyprus settlement is not a precondition for the opening of EU accession negotiations with Turkey. The UK is working to ensure a positive outcome in the ongoing settlement negotiations, including on security issues, on the basis of the UN Secretary General's proposals. We believe that is also the position of the Turkish Government—something which can only strengthen Turkey's relationship with the European Union.