Question to the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office:

To ask Her Majesty’s Government whether they have actively sought to ameliorate the embargo on the Turkish Cypriot community in accordance with Council of Europe Parliamentary Assembly Resolution 573 (1974); whether they consider that the resolution continues to be binding; and what measures they have taken to ensure that they have exercised equity and equality in dealing with both communities in Cyprus.

The Government recognises that the status quo in Cyprus causes serious difficulties for Turkish Cypriots, and we support measures aimed at reducing their isolation. We remain committed to supporting the economic development of the Turkish Cypriot community including through financial aid and trade liberalisation from the EU. At Cyprus' Universal Periodic Review at the UN Human Rights Council, the UK suggested that measures should be taken to enable Turkish Cypriots to participate effectively in cultural, social and economic life and public affairs. We also support the European Commission’s proposal for a direct trade regulation to enhance the Turkish Cypriot community’s access to EU markets. Disagreements over the legal basis mean that this has unfortunately not yet been agreed.

While resolutions of the Council of Europe Parliamentary Assembly are not legally binding, the hope expressed in Resolution 573 for a lasting settlement of the Cyprus problem remains pertinent today. Indeed, the best way of resolving the challenges faced by both communities is through a comprehensive settlement to end the division of the island. We therefore continue to support strongly UN-led efforts to reunify Cyprus through a lasting and just settlement. The UK supports all communities on the island in their efforts towards this goal.