HC Deb 16 July 1998 vol 316 cc249-50W
Mr. Howard

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what consultations he has had with Britain's EU partners concerning the proposed deployment of missiles in Cyprus; and if he will make a statement. [50722]

Mr. Doug Henderson

The intention of the Cyprus Government to deploy S300 missiles to Cyprus has been discussed with EU partners on a number of occasions. The overwhelming majority share UK concern that deployment would exacerbate tension in the region. We have expressed this concern to the Government of Cyprus and shall continue to do so.

Our views are widely shared internationally. In May this year, the G8 expressed concern that new developments in the military sphere, including any increase in force levels and the upgrading of sophisticated weaponry, would risk further raising tension in the region. The UN Security Council last month called on all parties to avoid any actions which might increase tension, including through the further expansion of military forces and armaments on Cyprus.

We continue to believe that there are better ways to assure the prosperity and security of Cyprus than an increase in armaments. Measures to reduce military tension have a role to play, but the best way is by means of a comprehensive political settlement. We continue to work actively in support of the UN-led peace process and we look to others, in particular the leaders of both Cypriot communities, to do the same.

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