§ Lord Kilclooneyasked Her Majesty's Government:
Whether, in their capacity as guarantor, they will give an assessment of the recent parliamentary election results in the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus. [HL575]
§ Baroness Symons of Vernham DeanThe elections in the north of Cyprus came at a critical time for the future of Cyprus and the prospects for a lasting and comprehensive settlement. We note the widespread concerns expressed by many Turkish Cypriots about the way in which the campaign was conducted. Notwithstanding those concerns, the majority of Turkish Cypriots have voted for a settlement to the Cyprus problem and for accession to the European Union. It is important that this desire is fully respected.
We hope that a new administration will be in place as soon as possible to allow Turkish Cypriots to grasp the opportunity available to reach a settlement to the Cyprus problem before I May 2004. We call on all sides to signal their willingness to meet the United Nations Secretary-General's criteria for the resumption of negotiations without delay.