VerbatimParliament, as it happens

Cyprus: Military Bases

Asked by James CartlidgeConservativeMinistry of DefenceTabled Answered 16 March 2026UIN 119399

The question

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, whether he has had discussions with (a) his Cypriot counterpart and (b) any Cypriot Government official on the sovereignty of UK military bases on Cyprus.

Answered by Al Carns

Our relationship with the Republic of Cyprus has never been closer. During the Defence Secretary’s visit to the Republic of Cyprus (RoC) on 5 March, he met with Defence Minister Palmas and the Head of the Cypriot National Guard.

The Defence Secretary has not held discussions with Defence Minister Palmas or other Cypriot Government officials specifically on the sovereignty of the Sovereign Base Areas on the island of Cyprus. The Sovereign Base Areas of Akrotiri and Dhekelia are fully sovereign UK territory, established under the 1960 Treaty of Establishment.

Verbatim has judged this answer against the question that was actually asked — answered, partly answered, or evaded. Sign in to see the verdict →

Open this question in Verbatim →

Every written question, searchable

155,000 questions tabled since the election, with the answer each department gave — and the ones still unanswered, with the clock running. Free to search.

Search written questions →Read on Verbatim