(a) Distinguish between a Secretary of State for the Colonies and a Governor-General in the British Colonial administration. (b) Highlight five functions of the Governor-General in the British West Africa shortly after independence.
Explanation
(a) The Secretary of State for the Colonies was a minister resident in Britain. He was responsible for advising the British government on matters affecting its colonies. A Governor-General on the other hand was not a minister. He was appointed by the Queen of Britain on the advice of the Prime Minister. He was resident in the colony and acted as the Head of State. (b)(i) He was authorized to appoint a Prime Minister. (ii) He appointed ministers on the advice of the Prime Minister. (iii) He gave his assent to bills passed by Parliament before they became laws. (iv) He was empowered to dissolve, prorogue and summon parliament on the advice of the Prime Minister. (v) He appointed members of the Public Service Commission and other important government officials on the advice of the Prime Minister. (vi) He received credentials from foreign dignitaries accredited to his country. (vii) He addressed the parliament during the first Parliamentary session. (Speech from the throne). (viii) He performed ceremonial functions. (ix) He could dismiss the Prime Minister and cabinet if there was a vote of no-confidence. (x) He exercised prerogative of mercy on the advice of the Prime Minister. (xi) He was the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces.
