Written question asked by Andrew Mackinlay (Labour) on Friday, 8 October 2004, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Thursday, 14 October 2004. It was answered by Denis MacShane (Labour) on Thursday, 14 October 2004 on behalf of the Foreign and Commonwealth Office.

Foreign and Commonwealth Office

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs, what the Government's policy is towards the proposal set out by President Papadopoulos of Cyprus to the European Commission on 23rd August that Varosha should be returned to the jurisdiction of the Republic of Cyprus and that the management of the port of Famagusta should be vested in a body representative of both communities and chaired by a nominee of the European Commission; and if he will make a statement.

Answer: Andrew Mackinlay: To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what the Government's policy is towards the proposal set out by President Papadopoulos of Cyprus to the European Commission on 23 August 2004 that Varosha should be returned to the jurisdiction of the Republic of Cyprus and that the management of the port of Famagusta should be vested in a body representative of both communities and chaired by a nominee of the European Commission; and if he will make a statement. [190473] Mr. MacShane: The British government welcomes in principle any measure taken by either side in Cyprus with the aim of contributing to a climate of increased trust and confidence between the two communities. Where such measures need to be mutually agreed, clearly they should be balanced and realistic. However, such measures are not a substitute for a settlement based on the Annan plan.

Secondary information