Question to the Ministry of Defence:

To ask Her Majesty's Government whether they have signed a new Memorandum of Understanding on the enhancement of defence and security co-operation between the United Kingdom and Republic of Cyprus; and if so, (1) why a new memorandum was required; (2) whether the Turkish Cypriot community was consulted; and (3) how it varies from existing arrangements.

A Defence and Security Co-operation Memorandum of Understanding between the United Kingdom and the Republic of Cyprus was signed in London on 4 April 2019. The British High Commission in Nicosia informed the Turkish Cypriot community in advance of the signing. The main purpose of the Memorandum of Understanding is to place the defence relationship on a more permanent and enduring basis. It will build on the existing annual Bilateral Defence Co-operation Programme to enable closer co-operation across a range of areas of mutual benefit. Planned activities include cyber defence and security, crisis management, exercising and training, and maritime security. Other areas of co-operation will include joint planning, Search and Rescue and officer education.