§ 69. Mr. Beswickasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies what are the functions of the taxation committee appointed in the Seychelles; what interests are represented by the members of the committee; and whether he is satisfied that the interests of the mass of the people are adequately represented.
Mr. Creech JonesI assume that my hon. Friend refers to the committee recently appointed by the Governor to draw up the final draft of the Ten-year Development Programme for Seychelles. The Governor has also asked this committee to consider and advise on the measures necessary to secure adequate funds for the Colony's requirements, since questions concerning local taxation, on which a full expression of public opinion is desired, are closely connected with the Development Programme. As regards the second part of the Question, the committee consists of Government officers, the unofficial members of Legislative Council and representatives of the Taxpayers and Landowners Association. The reply to the last part of the Question is in the affirmative.