CONFIDENTIAL
M K Ewans Esq
East African Department
Foreign & Commonwealth Office LONDON SW1
BRITISH HIGH COMMISSION VICTORIA
16 June 1977
COUP
1. Our timing in the matter of recognition was impeccable. It was sufficiently delayed to show that this was not a routine matter (and to carry a hint of disapprobation about the summary expulsion of our British funded policemen) and yet still in advance of the field (which was appropriate for the country with predominantlinterests in Seychelles). Mr Rene had become increasingly anxious as the days went by a week seems a long time in the aftermath of a coup
and he knew that irrespective of the disinterested basis of such a decision, the act of recognition by the UK improved the image of his government's respectability within Seychelles and probably elsewhere.
g
downl
2. The government is settling down. All ministers have now taken up their duties. Michel has put his revolver in a desk drawer. I have called on a number of them and we have re-established the arrangement of direct access to ministries.
3. The reorganisation of the civil service is virtually complete. Like his predecessor the President supervises two Ministers of State, but the portfolios he commands are more extensive. They comprise internal affairs, economic development and planning, finance, information, the civil service and legal affairs.
Guy Sinon with foreign affairs, aviation and tourism will also be a busy minister; and a sensible choice in OAU
circles.
CONFIDENTIAL