TNAG-0597-FCO40-744-Future-of-Dependent-Territories-territorial-studies-1977 — Page 114

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WIND

FITCAIRN

ST HETELA

ASCENSION ISLAND

TRISTAL DA. CHA

CONFIDENTIAL

Fresent Constitution and Frospects for Independence The Governor of Fitcairn is a perconal appointment which in recent years has been held by the British High Commissioner to New Zealand. The Island Magistrate presides over the Island Council of 10 zembers dealing with rarish affairs. Fopulation about 60: no constitutional advance is po-sible. Evacuation may become necessary (most probably to New Sealand or orfolk Island) but we hope that recent harbour improvements may help to sustain a viable community on Fitcairn.

Administered by Governor through Executive and Legislative Councils. No local pressure for independence. No constitutional changes since 1967.

Dependency of St Helena. Goverror is executive and legislative authority for Ascension Administra- trator, responsible to the Governor, is assisted by an Advisory Committee composed of represen- tatives of the organisations at present using the Island. There is no indigenous population, and therefore no pressure for independence.

Dependency of St Helena. Governor is legislative authority for Tristan da Cunha. Administrator is. responsible to the Governor but works direct to FCO. He is advised by elected Island Council. Population of 300. No foreseeable possibility of constitutional advance.

Considerations affecting Aid

Policy

Grant-aided. No likelihood of economic viability.

Not grant-aided. To likelikoci of economic viability.

Not grant-aided. No likelihood of economic viability.

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CONFIDENTIAL