(a) What is a crown colony?
(b) Highlight four functions of the Secretary of State for the colony under the British colonial system.
Explanation
(a) A crown colony is a territory acquired by the British monarch through settlement, cession, conquest or purchase
(b) i. Advising the colonial government on the appointment of governors
ii. Formulation of policies and programmes for the colony subject to British parliament approval
iii. Advising governors on formulation of policies in their respective colonies
iv. Supervision of the colonies
v. Approval of budget prepared by the governor
vi. Receiving delegation/petitions from the colonies
vii. Setting up.commission of enquiry into issues affecting the colonies
viii. Promotion, transfer and dismissal of governors
ix. Approving draft constitutions prepared by the governors
x. Controlling governor’s veto and certification powers
xi. Submitting annual report about the colony to the British parliament
xii. Approved all major projects to be undertaken in the colonies
xiii. Issued orders and instructions to the Governors on British colonial policies.