§ 39. Mr. Sorensenasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies on what grounds the Minister of Health in Sierra Leone was unseated after the general election; how many petitions have been presented against elected candidates, and for what reasons; and what is the present political position in that Colonial Territory.
§ Mr. ProfumoAfter considering a petition against the Minister's election, the Supreme Court found that corrupt practices had occurred and that undue influence had been exercised in the constituency; and it declared the election 1511 void. Nine election petitions have been filed in all, involving such matters as corrupt practices, irregular procedure by returning officers, and nomination by unqualified persons.
The new Government, formed after the recent elections, is now functioning and the new House of Representatives has concluded its first meeting, in which it tackled its business in a constructive manner.
§ Mr. SorensenHow many of these elected candidates are not taking their seats and, therefore, not acting in that Parliamentary sense?
§ Mr. ProfumoSo far, the outcome of only three hearings is known. All have been successful.