Describe how a legislative council was controlled in British West Africa before the second world war.

Answer Details

Before the Second World War the Legislative Councils in British West Africa were tightly controlled by the colonial authorities so as to keep real power in British hands. The council was controlled in the following ways.

1. Domination by official members: The council had a majority of official (nominated colonial officers) members who were bound to vote as the Governor directed, guaranteeing government control of all decisions.
2. Nomination of unofficial members: Most of the African "unofficial" members were nominated by the Governor rather than elected, so they owed their seats to him and rarely opposed him.
3. Governor as President: The Governor presided over the council, set its agenda and controlled its proceedings.
4. The Governor's power of veto: He could reject any bill or motion passed by the council.
5. Reserve and certification powers: The Governor could enact measures the council rejected, and reserve certain bills for the approval of the British Crown.
6. Limited franchise: Only a tiny number of Africans in a few coastal towns could elect members, so the council was unrepresentative and easily controlled.
7. Restricted legislative competence: The council could only legislate on limited matters and had little control over finance, which remained with the Governor.
8. Control from London: The Secretary of State for the Colonies gave directives that the Governor enforced through the council.