asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies what steps are being taken to construct an aerodrome on the Seychelles up to full international standard.

A reconnaissance survey team visited Seychelles last year to examine possible sites for an airfield and its report is awaited.

May I thank my right hon. Friend for that reply and recommend to him that improvement of communications would probably be the key to the future of this almost "Cinderella" group of islands, the Seychelles?

asked the Secretary of State for the Colonies what steps he is taking about the Budget proposals for the Seychelles, following the unanimous vote of the unofficial members of the Legislative Council against them.

I am satisfied that the Budget proposals are sound and that the Governor was entirely correct in using his casting vote in favour of the Appropriation Bill as a matter of urgency. I, therefore, do not propose to intervene.

Is it not the constitutional position that, when the unofficial members of the Legislative Council are unanimous, the Governor may not use his vote without the consent of the Secretary of State for the Colonies? Has the right hon. Gentleman given that consent? Will he put in the Library the Budget proposals so that we may make up our minds about them?

I will put in the Library all the information I can. I have satisfied myself that the Governor's action is entirely in accordance with constitutional practice and with the undertakings given in the past.