HL Deb 08 June 1995 vol 564 cc98-9WA
Lord Stallard

asked Her Majesty's Government:

In view of the recent decision by the European Union that accession negotiations with Cyprus will begin six months after the conclusion of the 1996 Inter-Governmental Conference, what steps they are taking (as a guarantee power of the Republic of Cyprus with vital interests in the stability and security of the island and its neighbouring region) in the intervening period before the start of the accession talks to help in the funding of a viable and permanent solution of the Cyprus problem in the interests of both of the island's communities.

Baroness Chalker of Wallasey

We want to see the process of EU accession contribute to a settlement of the intercommunal dispute. In the meantime we are giving full and active support to the UN Secretary General's efforts. Exploratory discussions between representations of the two communities in Cyprus took place in London on 21–23 May. We are encouraging both sides to approach future negotiations positively and flexibly.