KS AND CAICOS ISLANDS
General
The islands are situated south-east of the Bahamas and are generally flat, arid and stony. The two groups of islands are separated by a deep-water channel, about 22 miles wide. The Turks group consists of two inhabited islands, Grand Turk and Salt Cay, six uninhabited cays and a large number of rocks, surrounded by a three-pointed bank of reef. They are said to derive their name from a species of cactus whose scarlet flowers resemble a Turkish fez. The principal islands are Louth Caicos, East Caicos, Middle (or Grand) Caicos, North Caicos,
Providenciales and West Caicos - there are also a number of islets surrounded by a shallow-water reef.
The land area is estimated at 166 square miles. The entire island group extends for a distance of 75 miles from east to west and 50 miles from north to south. The climate is equable and healthy, tempered by trade winds. Temperature ranges between 15.6°C and 32.2°c. Rainfall is variable and tends to be higher in the Caicos Islands; on Grand Turk it averages about 21 inches. The islands are in the hurricane area.
The total population in 1970 was about 6,500. The principal settlements are Grand Turk (estimated population 2,330) and Cockburn Habour on South Caicos (estimated population 1,076). The people are mainly of African descent. There has been steady emigration from the islands, principally to the Bahamas. English is spoken and most inhabitants are Christian in religion.
Political
It The present constitution came into force in 1976. provides for a ministerial form of government with Legislative and Executive Councils. The Executive Council consists of the Chief Minister, three ministers and three ex-officio members. The Legislature comprises a Speaker, eleven elected members, three appointed members and three ex-officios. authority is vested in the Governor who normally acts in accordance with the recommendations made by the Executive Council. Following the introduction of the new constitution, fresh elections were held and 11 seats were contested. The Peoples
Executive
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