HC Deb 28 April 1959 vol 604 cc1094-5
37. Mr. C. Hughes

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies what steps for constitutional reform are being taken in St. Helena; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Lennox-Boyd

The Governor has anounced that an early review is intended of the Constitution of the Advisory Council and the method of selecting its members.

Mr. Hughes

When he is considering this matter, will the Colonial Secretary bear in mind that there is a very real demand by the people of St. Helena for the right to vote their own representatives on to the Advisory Council of the island?

Mr. Lennox-Boyd

Yes.

Mr. Callaghan

In view of the great poverty in this island and the fact that it has not been in the headlines, whilst we are all willing and glad to pay tribute to those who have been associated with the reforms which have taken place, will the Colonial Secretary agree that my hon. Friend's visit has been of very great value indeed?

Mr. Lennox-Boyd

Yes. I certainly think that it was one of the more profitable visits paid by Members of the opposite party.

Back to