§ 37. Dame Joan Vickersasked the Secretary of State for Commonwealth Affairs, what progress is being made with a new constitution for the Seychelles; and if he will give details.
§ Mr. George ThomsonA new Seychelles constitution came into force last November. Following a general election on 12th December, 1967, held for the first time on the basis of universal adult suffrage, the new Governing Council met on 27th December. As provided for in the constitution, the Governor has constituted three Committees of the Council which, with a Finance Committee, are, under the Council, responsible for policy and its implementation in the greater part of the Governmental field. There is an elected majority on both the Governing Council and its Committees.
This constitution provides a new form of government for small Administrations. I am glad to say it is receiving the good will of all interested parties in Seychelles.