London, Thanasis Gavos

The preservation of the British position in favor of a bizonal, bicommunal federation (DDO) solution in Cyprus, the new Labor government confirmed in a foreign policy debate in the House of Commons on Tuesday, the last day of business before the summer break.

Specifically, the Conservative MP for four decades and now deputy speaker in the new House of Commons Sir Roger Gale, known for his many years of pro-Cypriot actionasked to be informed by the new leadership of the Foreign Office what moves they intend to make to resolve the Cyprus issue.

“This summer is the 50th anniversary of Turkey’s illegal invasion and occupation of the northern part of the island of Cyprus. Will the Foreign Secretary tell the body what steps and initiatives his government will take to seek to resolve this frozen conflict, for which the British government has a historic responsibility as a guarantor power?’ was Sir Roger’s question.

Stephen Doughty, the Deputy Secretary of State responsible for European affairs, undertook to give the answer.

He first thanked Sir Roger for the “important” question, as he described it, adding that he is well aware of the interest of the experienced MP in the Cyprus issue for many years.

“As a government”replied Mr. Doughty, “We remain committed to a bi-zonal, bi-communal federation based on political equality and adherence to UN Security Council resolutions and will continue to engage with the UN envoy and the UN process on this important issue.”