HC Deb 13 June 1951 vol 488 cc2271-2
11. Commander Noble

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies the present composition of the Legislative Council of the Falkland Islands; on what occasions the Governor has a casting vote; and how often he has used this in order to carry official measures.

Mr. J. Griffiths

At present, the Council is composed of the Governor and six official members. The six unofficial members resigned on 24th April. The Governor has no original vote, but has a casting vote if the voting is equal. Since the present Constitution came into force on 1st January, 1949, he has used his casting vote to carry official measures on three occasions.

Commander Noble

Could the Minister say, first of all, why the unofficial members have resigned, and, secondly, in view of the fact that there are no mixed communities in the Falkland Islands, why they should not be given some considerable measure of responsibility in domestic affairs?

Mr. Griffiths

I gather from an informal talk the Governor had with them that they have indicated that the reason for the resignations was that they desire an unofficial majority. This matter is under consideration by the Governor and myself.

Mr. E. L. Mallalieu

Will my right hon. Friend bear in mind, having regard to the remoteness of the Falkland Islands and the frustration which is likely to follow from that remoteness in the minds of the inhabitants, the necessity for associating the inhabitants progressively with the Government of their territory?

Mr. Griffiths

I think my hon. Friend knows our record in colonial matters in the last few years.

Mr. Lennox-Boyd

Since two of these unofficial members are nominated and four are elected, and since they have all acted together, must there not be something in these mass resignations, and will the right hon. Gentleman look again into the circumstances that caused them?

Mr. Griffiths

I am considering, with the Governor, the cause of the resignations and the proposals which have been made.