British Politicians Supporting Self-Determination and Human Rights in Cyprus in the 1950s

Description

British Politicians Supporting Self-Determination and Human Rights in Cyprus in the 1950s (2019) (hard cover) ISBN 978-9963-2394-5-0  (paperback) ISBN 978-9963-2394-4-3, 538 pages. (IN ENGLISH) It was during the 1950’s that a number of British politicians dared raise their voice and express support for the Cypriots in their demand for self-determination and Enosis. These politicians in general held liberal views and beliefs and were against the dogma of imperialism and colonialism. The majority were members of the Labour party that for the major part of the 1950s were in opposition. Some of them studied the Classics and were influenced by the ancient Greek spirit and ideals of liberty and democracy. Others no doubt were influenced by Lenin’s writings and discourses on the issue of anti-colonialism and the right of self-determination of the people under colonial rule.

Major sections of this book comprise of biographical notes, debates and interventions in Parliament, and questions put to Ministers or Prime Minsters during the 1950s on the Cyprus issue. The list includes British politicians that expressed supportive views for the Human Rights of the Cypriots including the right to self-determination and Enosis. They are presented in chronological order of their election as Members of Parliament.

Some of the politicians that feature in this book, such as Francis Noel-Baker, may have played the role of a broker in the Cyprus discussions, being proponents of both sides of the argument. They are nonetheless included in the book since their involvement in the Cyprus issue at the time was prominent.

With the exception of references to the debates by Lord Strabolgi that took place in the House of Lords, all other debates, questions and interventions by Members of Parliament took place in the House of Commons.