Oral Answers to Questions

John Bercow Excerpts

Tuesday 3rd May 2011 Commons Chamber

[Mr Browne]

We have made it clear to the Japanese from the outset that we are willing to offer any expertise that might benefit them, but it is worth reminding the House that Japan is an extremely sophisticated country with an extremely developed economy and highly reputable scientists. It is therefore able to make many of those decisions for itself.

[Mr Speaker]

Question 13: I call David Morris. He is not here.

[Helen Goodman (Bishop Auckland) (Lab)]

14. What recent progress he has made in strengthening bilateral relations with India; and if he will make a statement.

--- Later in debate ---

[Mr Lidington]

The urgent need for progress towards a settlement in Cyprus is on the agenda at every conversation that either I or my right hon. Friend the Foreign Secretary have with both our Turkish and Cypriot counterparts. I am sure that that will continue to be the case, and I hope that once the forthcoming Cypriot and then the Turkish elections are over, all parties concerned will redouble their efforts to reach the solution that all communities in Cyprus need to see.

[Mr Speaker]

Graham Evans is not here, so I call Fiona Bruce.

[Fiona Bruce (Congleton) (Con)]

T2. rose—

[Mr Speaker]

Order. I am sorry, but in the circumstances the Foreign Secretary should first give a statement on his departmental responsibilities.

[The Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs (Mr William Hague)]

Yesterday I visited Cairo to underline the United Kingdom’s support for what the people of Egypt have achieved in the last three months and for their democratic and peaceful future. Across the middle east, this Government will continue to offer their support to ensure that the countries of the region can meet their people’s legitimate aspirations and that events do not result in the suppression of those aspirations, as we are seeing in countries such as Syria.

--- Later in debate ---

[Several hon. Members]

rose—

[Mr Speaker]

Order. We come now to a statement by the Prime Minister.

[Ann Clwyd (Cynon Valley) (Lab)]

On a point of order, Mr Speaker.

[Mr Speaker]

Order. Points of order come after statements. I shall await the right hon. Lady’s point of order with interest and anticipation.