Theory question 112
The Commonwealth(a) Describe the origin of the Commonwealth.
(b) Identify four benefits derived by being a member of the Commonwealth.
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(a) The Commonwealth grew out of the British Empire. The 1926 Balfour Declaration described Britain and the self-governing dominions (Canada, Australia, etc.) as equal, autonomous communities united by allegiance to the Crown; the Statute of Westminster (1931) gave this legal form as the British Commonwealth of Nations. After India's independence (1947–49) the London Declaration allowed republics to join and 'British' was dropped; former colonies joined at independence (Ghana 1957, Nigeria 1960). The British monarch is Head of the Commonwealth (Queen Elizabeth II in 2007; King Charles III since 2022); a Secretariat in London (since 1965) is led by a Secretary-General.
(b) Any four: technical and educational assistance (scholarships, training); economic aid and trade co-operation; sharing of experiences at Heads of Government meetings; promotion of democracy and human rights; sporting and cultural links (Commonwealth Games); mediation in disputes; use of English as a common language; easier diplomatic relations (high commissioners).
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