UNCLASSIFIED
FP 1/10
Reference...
93
Separately to:
Mr. A.J. Fairclough
Mr. J. S. Bennett
Mr. T.C. Jerrom
Mr. T.R.M. Sewell
Mr. R. W. Piper
Mr. W. S. Carter
LAST
REF.
NEXG
REF.
95
93/efi
Governors' emoluments
Mr. Wright (Treasury) in his letter of 27 February (a copy of which I attach for convenience) conceded the principle that, where certain dependent territories for political reasons are unable to increase their Governor's salary, or cannot afford to pay an increase, or would refuse to pay if requested, a "topping-up" allowance may be paid from United Kingdom public funds provided that (a) such an increase were clearly merited and (b) the Treasury
were consulted in advance. As a result of this decision, we were successful in obtaining an increase in the salary of the Governor of Mauritius of a total of £1,100 per annum retrospective to 1 January. 1964 as to £700, and 1 July 1966 as to an additional £400.
2. Hitherto, the pay of Governors was dealt with by the Administrative Appointments Department of the Ministry of Overseas Development. It has now, however, been agreed that this Office will in future be responsible for Governors' emoluments and that the initiative will rest with my department in consultation with you and, where necessary, with the Ministry of Overseas Development.
3. I should therefore be grateful if you would let me know as soon as possible whether you consider that the present salary of the Governor/High Commissioner is adequate or not and, if not, whether, within the terms of the attached Treasury letter, a case could be made for an increase from United Kingdom funds and, if so, by how much you would propose it should be increased and with effect from what date and on what grounds.
4. Subject to your views, I propose to put to the Treasury a proposal that, with effect from 17 November 1967, Governors' salaries should be expressed in local currency in order to protect them, where
/applicable