§ 71. Mr. Biggs-Davisonasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies whether he will make a statement about the industrial and other troubles of the Seychelles.
§ Mr. Frederick LeeThe Governor informed me on 10th June that in the course of wage discussions the Transport and General Workers Union of Seychelles had rejected an interim award of an 11 per cent, wage increase and called a strike for 13th June. On 14th June the Governor reported that there was a complete strike of Government public works and marine workers and private building workers and that over 2,000 people were involved. There was increasing intimidation of essential and other workers, the situation was deteriorating, and outside assistance was needed.
H.M.S. "Carysfort" was accordingly diverted to the Seychelles and arrived on 16th June. There was an immediate improvement in confidence and in the situation generally. Negotiations were resumed with the Union on 17th June and sufficient agreement was reached to lead to a resumption of work on 20th June.
The immediate threat to security has now receded and discussions between government and the unions are continu- 120W ing. The Overseas Labour Adviser, Mr. G. Foggon, has already left for Seychelles to assist in these.