HC Deb 15 October 1990 vol 177 cc756-7W
Mr. John D. Taylor

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth affairs what representations he has made to the Government in the Greek sector of Cyprus about the arrest of Major (Retd.) Herbert Norton Harwood; what age is the prisoner; what is the state of his health; whether he has been charged with any offence; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Lennox-Boyd

Mr. Herbert Norton Harwood, a 77-year-old British national resident in Kyrenia, was arrested in Nicosia on 11 September 1990 and charged with photographing National Guard positions without permission. On 4 October 1990 he was sentenced to two years' imprisonment. In consultation with his lawyer he is considering an appeal.

He has received regular consular visits, most recently on 5 October 1990. He did not mention any health problems and appeared fit for his age. Nevertheless, the prison authorities have been reminded of the need to provide him with prompt medical treatment should he require it.

We have made no representations to the Cyprus Government about Mr. Harwood.