In a surprising move, the Labour Party has dismissed Afzal Khan from his position as the UK's special envoy to North Cyprus after it emerged he made an unauthorised trip to the region. The decision has sent shockwaves through Westminster, raising questions about diplomatic protocols and party discipline.
Unauthorised Visit Sparks Controversy
The Manchester MP reportedly travelled to North Cyprus without obtaining the necessary clearance from the Foreign Office. While the exact purpose of his visit remains unclear, sources suggest it may have been related to discussions about the island's long-standing political division.
Labour's Swift Action
A Labour spokesperson confirmed Khan's removal, stating: "All special envoys must follow proper procedures when undertaking official visits. Mr Khan failed to do so in this instance." The party emphasised its commitment to maintaining strict standards in international relations.
Political Fallout
The incident has drawn criticism from political opponents, with some Conservative MPs questioning Labour's oversight of its representatives. Meanwhile, Khan's supporters argue the punishment seems disproportionate for what they describe as a procedural oversight.
Background on North Cyprus
North Cyprus remains a diplomatically sensitive region, recognised only by Turkey since its unilateral declaration of independence in 1983. The UK government, like most of the international community, continues to recognise the Republic of Cyprus as the sole legitimate authority on the island.
This development comes at a sensitive time for UK-Cyprus relations, with ongoing discussions about the island's future status and British military bases in the region.
