Matthew has been appointed Chairman of the All Party Parliamentary Group for Cyprus in the UK Parliament. The Group is comprised of members of the House of Commons and House of Lords who work to address issues between the countries and concerns on the island itself.
Following the 'bail out' of the Cyprus economy in March, UK Treasury officials travelled to the island to assist in negotiations and provide advice and Matthew has met with the British High Commissioner in Cyprus and Europe Minister David Liddington MP to discuss Britain's role. President Anastasiades has welcomed British involvement. The prospect of untapped hydrocarbons in the Eastern Mediterranean could not only provide the island with a huge economic boost but could assist in the negotiations to reunite the island following the conflict in 1974.
Matthew said "The main objective of the Committee is to seek the reunification of the island but, following the bail out, reform of public services will also be high upon the agenda for the Cypriot Government. The Group is keen that the British Government assists President Anastasiades in this reform programme. I see this as time for a fresh start in regard to political, economical and some social issues in Cyprus and, as a Sovereign Guarantor, the UK has a a significant role to play.
"As Chairman I also want to improve access to Wayne's Keep, a British Military Cemetery in Nicosia and ensure the upkeep of the Military Cemeteries at Kyrenia, Troodos, Dhekelia and Nicosia for the families and friends of British Servicemen who died on active service between 1878 and 1959. Concerns remain about the ownership of the land so the combined diplomatic efforts of the British and Cypriot Governments, the Commonwealth Graves Association and local people on the island will be needed to obtain permission."
Matthew is pictured with Matthew King, High Commissioner to Cyprus, and Europe Minister David Lidington MP