I refer to your letter of 28th June, concerning the letter addressed to His Excellency the Governor-General by Mr. W. Currey, M.L.A. with reference to a petition proposed to be presented to His Excellency by Mr. X.

I am not aware of any rule either of law or constitutional practice which would require His Excellency to afford Mr. X. an opportunity of submitting a petition in person and to make an oral statement in regard thereto.

His Excellency would be well aware of the embarrassing situations that are likely to arise in the event of a petitioner being permitted to address His Excellency personally in relation to the petition.

In the circumstances, I respectfully express the view that His Excellency would not be well advised to permit Mr. X. to present his petition in person.

I would suggest that a letter be sent to Mr Currey on the following lines (omitting formal parts):

His Excellency requests me to inform you that he is not pleased to permit Mr. X. to present a petition in person.

His Excellency is advised that such a procedure would not be in accordance with established practice.

If the petition is posted or delivered to me I shall acknowledge its safe receipt and Mr. X.s and yourself may rest assured that it will be submitted to His Excellency in accordance with constitutional practice.