§ 44. Mr. David Atkinsonasked the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs if he will make a statement on progress towards a settlement of the dispute between the two communities in Cyprus.
§ Mr. WhitneyWe continue to want a peaceful, just and lasting settlement to the Cyprus problem. We believe that the United Nations Secretary-General, whose mandate to pursue his mission of good offices was recently reaffirmed by the United Nations Security Council, is best placed to help make progress towards that end. We stand ready to do all we can to help him.
§ 51. Mr. Tom Coxasked the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what discussions he has hd with Greece and Turkey with regard to the present position in Cyprus.
§ Mr. WhitneyAs my right hon. and learned Friend told the House on 15 November 1983, at column 725, folowing the purported declaration of independence by the Turkish Cypriots, he proposed to his Greek and Turkish colleagues that tripartite consultations be held as envisaged under the treaty of guarantee. Unfortunately, it has not so far proved possible to hold such consultations. We continue to keep in close touch with all parties to the dispute.
§ 84. Mr. James Lamondasked the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs if he intends to take any initiative on the question of the Turkish invasion forces in Northern Cyprus.
§ Mr. WhitneyWe continue to look for a peaceful, just and lasting settlement to the Cyprus problem. This will, of course, have to include an agreement on the presence of foreign troops in the Republic of Cyprus. We believe that the United Nations Secretary-General is best placed to help make progress towards that end and we will continue to support his efforts.