§ Lord Vivianasked Her Majesty's Government:
What were the results of the recent "proximity" talks between the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus and the Cyprus Government; and what further steps will now be taken. [HL691]
§ Baroness Scotland of AsthalUN proximity talks began in New York on 3 December to prepare the ground for comprehensive negotiations on a settlement in Cyprus. The content of the discussions remain privy to the UN, but the Secretary General has confirmed that both parties engaged constructively on core settlement issues. The proximity talks will continue in Geneva on 31 January. We continue to give the UN Secretary General strong support in his efforts.