Question to the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office:

To ask Her Majesty’s Government, further to the Written Answer by Baroness Warsi on 9 July (WA 44), whether their "policy on recognition" remains a negative one; and how such a policy contributes to "renewed efforts to reach a comprehensive settlement".

The UK recognises the Republic of Cyprus. Like all other states, except Turkey, we do not recognise the self-proclaimed "Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus". It is for the Greek Cypriot and Turkish Cypriot communities to reach an agreement on how to live together on their shared island. It is on that basis that the UN has supported the two communities in their negotiations since 1977. This approach is in line with our international commitments, and we will continue to support UN efforts to facilitate a comprehensive and lasting settlement.