§ Lord Maginnis of Drumglassasked Her Majesty's Government:
Given that the Turkish Cypriots have voted to accept the Annan plan, whether they will permit without delay direct flights between northern Cyprus and United Kingdom airports. [HL2825]
§ Baroness Symons of Vernham DeanThe Government believe steps should be taken as quickly as possible to end the isolation of the Turkish Cypriots. On 26 April 2004, the General Affairs and External Relations Council invited the European Commission to "bring foward comprehensive proposals, with particular emphasis on the economic integration of the island [of Cyprus] and on improving contact between the two communities and with the EU". We look forward to seeing these proposals. We are considering these issues too and see significant benefits in direct links between the northern part of Cyprus and other parts of the EU if this can be done in a safe and effective way, respecting the legitimate concerns and interests of all involved.