TNAG-0597-FCO40-744-Future-of-Dependent-Territories-territorial-studies-1977 — Page 84

NEW HEBRIDES

PITCAIRN

ST HELENA

ASCENSION ISLAND

TRISTAN DA CUNHA

CONFIDENTIAL

4

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Present Constitution and Prospects for Independence

Anglo-French Condominium, Constitutional development had been at a standstill, until Anglo/French agreement in November 1974 to establish a Representative Assembly, with wide responsibilities, elected by universal suffrage. Elections held in November 1975. At inaugural meeting of Assembly in June 1976 joint ministerial statement publicly affirmed our policy of self-determination. Independence has been promised for 1980 Elections are due to be held in November. Provisional local authorities, the nucleus of a new single administration and a joint office to discharge Franco-British responsibilities are to be set up before the end of the year. measure of self-government will be inaugurated early in 1978.

A wide

The Governor of Pitcairn is a personal 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 members dealing with parish affairs. Population about 60: no constitutional advance is possible. Evacuation may become necessary (most probably to New Zealand or Norfolk Island) but we hope that recent harbour improvements may help to sustain a viable community on Pitcairn.

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

Dependency of St Helena. Governor is executive and legislative authority for Ascension, Administrator, responsible to the Governor, is assisted by an Advisory Committee composed of representatives 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.

/SOLOMON ISLANDS

Considerations affecting Aid Policy

Grant-aided. Little likelihood of becoming economically viable.

Grant-aided.

No likelihood of economic viability.

Not grant-aided. No likelihood of economic viability.

No

Not grant-aided. likelihood of economic viability.

CONFIDENTIAL