§ 21. Mr. Michael McNair-Wilsonasked the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs whether he intends to seek to pay an official visit to the Seychelles in the near future.
§ The Under-Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs (Mr. Anthony Kershaw)My right hon. Friend has no plans to do so at present.
§ Mr. McNair-WilsonIs my hon. Friend aware that the future political relationship of the Seychelles with the United Kingdom is causing a considerable amount of political dissent in the Seychelles? Would not a Ministerial visit do much to clear the air?
§ Mr. KershawThe present constitution of the Seychelles has been in operation for only just over 12 months. It is reasonable to see how it will work out. I am aware of the desire of the people of the Seychelles to have a close association with Britain, which is heartily reciprocated.
§ Mr. MatherWill my hon. Friend bear in mind the desire of the great majority of the people of Seychelles for closer ties with Britain on a permanent basis? Will my hon. Friend consider ways and means of achieving this?
§ Mr. KershawThese considerations are in our minds. It is, perhaps, early days to make further progress in this direction.