§ Mr. Arthur Lewisasked the Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs why Sir Richard Posnett, recently governor of Bermuda, has resigned; why he accepted the resignation; to what extent this was due to allegations made against him to the effect that he is supposed to have misapplied public funds; whether any prosecutions for any stated offences are to be initiated; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. PymSir Richard Posnett's letter of resignation referred to the publicity given to critical statements about the handling of public moneys at Government house. He considered that this had created an atmosphere in which it would no longer be possible for him to continue to carry out his responsibilities as governor and expressed the hope that his resignation would assist the maintenance of good relations with the Government of Bermuda. He gave an assurance that no public funds had been knowingly misused at Government house. In accepting his resignation 519W I expressed my regret at the unhappy circumstances, my understanding of Sir Richard's feelings, and my appreciation of his past services to the Crown.