Theory question 107
Colonial Administration(a) What is a crown colony?
(b) Highlight four functions of the Secretary of State for the colony under the British colonial system.
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(a) A crown colony was a territory acquired by Britain through settlement, conquest or cession and ruled directly by the British Crown through a Governor (e.g. Lagos Colony, Freetown).
(b) Any four:
1. Formulated colonial policy.
2. Appointed, posted and removed Governors.
3. Approved colonial budgets, major projects and laws.
4. Answered to the British Parliament on colonial matters.
5. Approved draft constitutions; issued Orders-in-Council.
6. Received petitions and delegations from colonies.
7. Set up commissions of enquiry.
8. Gave instructions and advice to Governors.
Crown colony = direct rule; protectorates were ruled indirectly.