asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies what machinery exists in Mauritius for consultation between trade union representatives and heads of Government Departments.

The Governor is considering the establishment of a Central Whitley Council for Government employees and of Departmental Advisory Committees for each Government Department on the lines recommended by the former Trade Union Adviser to the Mauritius Government. I have asked for a report on the present position and will communicate with my hon. Friend when it is received.