HC Deb 05 April 1974 vol 871 cc464-5W
Mr. Biggs-Davison

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs if he will make a statement about the constitutional future of the Seychelles.

Mr. Grylls

asked the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs what proposals the Government have in relation to the granting of internal independence to the Seychelles.

Miss Joan Lestor

General elections in Seychelles will be held on 25th April 1974. Both the major political parties in Seychelles are now publicly committed to independence. No decision about the future constitutional relationship between Britain and Seychelles can be taken until after the results of the elections are known and have been carefully considered in consultation with the Seychelles Government. Her Majesty's Government's policy remains, in accordance with long-standing practice, that the wishes of the people of the territory will be Britain's main guide in considering the future status of Seychelles.