§ Dr. MarekTo ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what proposals he has received from St. Helena proposing changes in the constitution of St. Helena. [123925]
42W
§ Mr. BattleI understand that discussion documents are being drawn up in St. Helena to help local consultations about possible changes to the Constitution.
Our position remains the same as set out in my answer to the hon. Member on 3 March 2000, Official Report, column 441W, namely, that we are prepared to consider their specific, detailed and well argued recommendations for the amendment of the 1998 Constitutional Order.
§ Dr. MarekTo ask the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what plans he has to review the checks and accountability in respect of actions taken by the Governor without reference to the Legislative Council or Executive Council under the constitution of St. Helena. [123926]
§ Mr. BattleWhere the Governor is required to consult with the Executive Council and act in accordance with their advice but does not do so, he is required under the provisions of the Constitution to obtain the prior approval of the Secretary of State, unless the matter is of such urgency that it is necessary for him to act before obtaining approval, in which case he must then report his actions and reasons to the Secretary of State. Any Executive Councillor can comment on the Governor's reasons to the Secretary of State. Where the Governor acts at his discretion he remains accountable to the Secretary of State.