HC Deb 04 October 1939 vol 351 cc1966-7W
Mr. David Adams

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies whether he has now considered the resolutions from the Seychelles Taxpayers' Association requesting an amendment to the constitution whereby adequate popular representation of the inhabitants and a reduction in the excessive costs of the administration may be secured; and what action he proposes in the matter?

Mr. M. Macdonald:

Yes, Sir. I have considered the resolutions in consultation with the Governor. I am satisfied that the method of selecting unofficial members of the Legislative Council is adequate in present circumstances, and I do not think that any amendment of the constitution is required.

As regards the cost of administration, it is estimated that, excluding considerable grants from the Colonial Development Fund, Government expenditure in the Colony has in fact been reduced during the past three years by about 18 per cent. I see no reason to regard it as excessive.