HL Deb 19 December 2002 vol 642 cc137-8WA
Lord Kilclooney

asked Her Majesty's Government:

What is their response, as guarantor power, to the fact that the settlement for Cyprus proposed by the United Nations does not provide for input by the United Kingdom to the stationing of troops from foreign powers in Cyprus. [HL599]

Baroness Symons of Vernham Dean

As a guarantor power, the UK Government fully support the UN proposals for a comprehensive settlement to the Cyprus problem, including security arrangements. It is, of course, for the two sides in Cyprus to agree a settlement, but we believe the UN proposals to be workable and fair.

Lord Kilclooney

asked Her Majesty's Government:

Whether, as guarantor power, they have no input or responsibility for minority religious groups in both northern and southern Cyprus. [HL600]

Baroness Symons of Vernham Dean

I understand that the United Nations Secretary-General's proposals make provisions for religious groups in both the Greek Cypriot and Turkish Cypriot communities. I belive that the proposals are comprehensive, workable and fair. A settlement to the Cyprus problem remains the best basis for ensuring that all Cypriots enjoy the full range of civil and human rights.

Lord Kilclooney

asked Her Majesty's Government:

Whether the present United Nations proposals for a Cyprus resettlement recommend that there be two police services operational in northern Cyprus: (a) one under the control of the "component state" in North Cyprus and (b) the other under the control of the "common state" of Cyprus. [HL601]

Baroness Symons of Vernham Dean

The United Nations Secretary-General's proposals for a comprehensive settlement to the Cyprus problem provide for police forces in both the component states and the common state. They would have equal numbers of personnel and there would be extensive co-operation between them. The UK Government fully support the proposals as the basis for a settlement. However, it is for the two sides in Cyprus to agree on the details.