TNAG-0831-FCO40-1039-Commonwealth-Parliamentary-Association-(CPA)-annual-conferen-1979 — Page 20

THE GILBERT ISLANDS

The Gilbert Islands comprise 33 islands in the South-West Pacific with a population of about 55,000. The territory enjoys internal self-government and is expected to achieve Independence in 1979.

The present Constitution was introduced on 1 October 1975 and was amended in 1976 and 1977. It provides for a House of Assembly of 35 elected Members, one lieber appointed by the Habi Council of Banaban Leaders, and one éx-officio Member (the Attorney- General); and for a Council of Ministers consisting of:

(a)

(b)

(c)

the Chief Minister who is elected nationally;

not less than 5, and not more than 7 Ministers appointed by the Governor, acting in accordance with the advice of the Chief Minister, from among the elected riembers of the House of Assembly;

the Attorney-Ceneral.

Elections for the House of Assembly are normally held every 4 years, as is the election for Chief Minister.

There is provision in the Constitution enabling the Governor, on the advice of the Chief Minister, to appoint and assign to individual Ministers responsibility for the conduct of any business of the Government of the Territory, including responsibility for the administration of any department of government. The Governor retains responsibility for external affairs, defence, and internal security.