Financial and Fiscal System (Commissioner)

Oral Answers to Questions — Seychelles – in the House of Commons at 12:00 am on 16 July 1957.

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Photo of Mr Stephen Swingler Mr Stephen Swingler , Newcastle-under-Lyme 12:00, 16 July 1957

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies on what date a Commissioner was appointed to examine the financial and fiscal system of the Seychelles; whom he has appointed; and what terms of reference have been laid down.

Photo of Mr John Profumo Mr John Profumo , Stratford-on-Avon

I am glad to say that Sir Rex Surridge accepted this appointment on 11th July. His terms of reference will be to advise on financial administration and financial and fiscal policy and to carry out a revision of structure, salaries and conditions of service of the Civil Service".

Photo of Mr Stephen Swingler Mr Stephen Swingler , Newcastle-under-Lyme

While I welcome this appointment and wish well to the Commissioner who has been appointed, may I ask if the Under-Secretary is aware that those of us on this side of the House who have been concerned about the Seychelles in the past are not satisfied that this is adequate; and that we still feel that an independent commission of inquiry into the whole governmental and administrative system of the Seychelles is necessary to prevent further maladministration?

Photo of Mr John Profumo Mr John Profumo , Stratford-on-Avon

As I have told the hon. Gentleman before, I do not accept his allegations. I really think that we ought to take one step at a time. Let us wait for the Commissioner's Report, and then, no doubt, the hon. Gentleman will find the chance to vent his feelings once again.