Functions of the Secretary of State for the Colonies in the Colonial Period

In this post, we shall examine the functions of the Secretary of State for Colonies. At the end of this lesson, students should be able to highlight these functions.

Secretary of State for the Colonies

During the colonial period, the Secretary of State for the Colonies held a crucial position within the British government. He was responsible for overseeing colonial affairs and administering the vast territories under British rule. One of such secretaries was Sir Oliver Lyttleton, after which the 1954 Nigerian Constitution was named.

The functions of the Secretary of State for the Colonies were multifaceted and played a pivotal role in shaping colonial policies and governance.

Functions of the Secretary of State for the Colonies

The functions of the Secretary of State for the Colonies are outlined below:

1. Responsibility to British Parliament: The Secretary of State for the Colonies was accountable to the British Parliament on all matters relating to colonial affairs. This involved updating Parliament on developments, policies, and challenges in the colonies.
2. Supervision of Colonial Administration: The Secretary of State supervised the administration of the colonies, ensuring the implementation of British policies and directives by colonial officials.
3. Advisory Role to Governors: The Secretary of State provided advice and guidance to colonial Governors when they encountered problems or faced difficult decisions in their territories.
4. Recommendations for Governor Appointments: The Secretary of State recommended individuals to the British Crown for appointment as Governors in the colonies. He played a significant role in the selection of colonial leaders.
5. Power to Disallow Controversial Legislation: The Secretary of State had the authority to disallow colonial legislation that was deemed controversial or conflicting with British colonial policy.
6. Issuing Orders on British Colonial Policy: The Secretary of State issued orders to colonial Governors, ensuring compliance with British colonial policy and directives.
7. Approval of New Constitutions: The Secretary of State approved the drafting of new constitutions for colonies, facilitating changes in governance structures and policies.
8. Control of Colonial Finances: The Secretary of State exercised control over colonial finances, approving budgets and auditing accounts to ensure financial accountability.
9. Receipt of Petitions and Grievances: The Secretary of State received petitions and grievances from the colonies on behalf of the British government, serving as a channel for communication and redress.
10. Commissioning Enquiries on Disturbances: In response to disturbances or unusual occurrences in the colonies, such as the Aba Riots of 1929, the Secretary of State commissioned inquiries to investigate and assess the situation.
11. Submission of Annual Reports: The Secretary of State submitted annual reports to the British Crown through Parliament, providing comprehensive assessments of the state of the colonies and the progress made in governance and development.