He was governor of Portuguese Guinea (Guinea-Bissau) between 1958 and 1962. During his tenure as governor, the Pidjiguiti massacre took place, which started the Guinea-Bissau War of Independence. He was succeeded by Vasco António Martins Rodrigues. He was Minister of the Overseas from 4 December 1962 to 19 March 1965 under Prime Minister Salazar. He was vice-president of the Council of Overseas Territories from 1960 to 1970. He was member of the National Assembly of Portugal from 1965 until 1973. He died on 16 March 1988.