Legislative Independence for Commonwealth Dominions

December 11th, 1931

December 11th, 1931

Legislative Independence for Commonwealth Dominions
How Long Ago?

93 years, 3 months, 4 days ago

Location

United Kingdom and Commonwealth Nations

Category

Politics & Government

People
  • William Lyon Mackenzie King
  • Jan Smuts
  • Michael Collins
  • James Scullin
  • Richard John Seddon
Links & References
Tags

Legislative Independence for Commonwealth Dominions

The Statute of Westminster established legislative independence for the Dominions of the British Empire, marking a significant shift in the governance of Australia, Canada, New Zealand, South Africa, Newfoundland, and Ireland. Enacted by the British Parliament, this statute allowed the Dominions to create their own laws without interference from Westminster, ensuring equal legislative capabilities. This momentous change reflected the growing desire for autonomy among British colonies and was a pivotal step towards full sovereignty for these nations. It highlighted a transition from colonial oversight to self-governance within the Commonwealth.

Allowed Dominions to self-legislate independently

Ensured equality among Commonwealth nations

Began a shift towards complete independence

Federal principles applied to diverse territories

What Happened?

The Statute of Westminster was a landmark law passed by the British Parliament that granted complete legislative independence to the Dominions of the British Empire, namely Australia, Canada, Newfoundland, New Zealand, South Africa, and Ireland. This statute served to empower these countries, allowing them to enact their own laws without needing to seek approval from the British Parliament. The process began during the 1926 Imperial Conference, where leaders from various Dominions discussed their growing desire for more autonomy. The conference underscored the principle that the Dominions were equal in status to the UK and should not be treated as subordinate entities. By 1931, this discussion culminated in the Statute of Westminster, which marked a pivotal turning point in the evolution of the British Empire into a more equitable Commonwealth.The statute came into effect on the 1st of October, 1931, and it eliminated any legal limitations that had previously applied to the Dominions. Included in the statute's provisions was the principle of non-interference; the British parliament could no longer legislate for the Dominions unless requested to do so. This change significantly influenced the relationship between the UK and its former colonies, laying the groundwork for their eventual independence and the establishment of their own identities on the world stage. Subsequently, it emboldened other nations seeking self-determination and shaped the future trajectory of the Commonwealth of Nations.

Why Does it Matter?

The Statute of Westminster is interesting because it marks a crucial milestone in the transition of former colonies into independent entities within their own right. By granting legislative equality, it recognized the aspirations of nations to govern themselves and established a framework for modern democratic governance. The statute not only reshaped the British Empire's structure but also set a precedent for future decolonization movements, influencing how countries around the world would pursue autonomy.

Discover More Historic Events from December 11th

Health & Medicine

FDA Grants Emergency Use Authorization for Vaccine

December 11th, 2020 4 years ago

The Food and Drug Administration issued an Emergency Use Authorization for the Pfizer–BioNTech COVID-19 vaccine, marking a significant milestone in the fight against the COVID-19 pandemic. This decision allows the distribution of the first COVID-19 vaccine in the United States, facilitating the vaccine's availability to high-risk populations. Pfizer and BioNTech developed the vaccine to address the urgent public health crisis caused by the pandemic. The authorization was based on clinical trial data showing the vaccine's efficacy and safety, setting the stage for widespread immunization efforts.

Continue Reading
Politics & Government

Bougainville Votes for Independence

December 11th, 2019 5 years ago

The results of the Bougainville independence referendum reveal an overwhelming majority in favor of independence, with over 98% of voters supporting secession from Papua New Guinea. The referendum marks a significant step in the long-standing aspiration of the Bougainvillean people for self-determination, stemming from years of civil conflict and political negotiations. The process was facilitated by a peace agreement established to end hostilities and create a pathway for self-governance.

Continue Reading
Crime & Law

Pipe Bomb Detonates in New York Subway

December 11th, 2017 7 years ago

A pipe bomb partially detonated in the New York City Subway at the Times Square–42nd Street/Port Authority Bus Terminal, injuring four individuals, including the bomber. The explosive device was detonated during rush hour in a heavily trafficked area, raising alarm across the city and prompting a swift response from emergency services. The perpetrator, identified as Akayed Ullah, aimed to instill fear and disrupt normalcy in one of the busiest transport hubs in the world.

Continue Reading
Military & Warfare

Bombings in Aqrab Kill Over 125 People

December 11th, 2012 12 years ago

In a devastating attack on the Alawite village of Aqrab, Syria, bombings led to the deaths of at least 125 individuals and left nearly 200 injured. The violence occurred amid the ongoing Syrian Civil War, where sectarian tensions were high. Aqrab, located in the central province of Homs, became a focal point for clashes between government forces and rebel groups. The bombings sparked outrage and fear, highlighting the increasing brutality of the conflict in the region.

Continue Reading
Entertainment

Rovio Releases Angry Birds on iOS Internationally

December 11th, 2009 15 years ago

Rovio Entertainment launched the mobile game Angry Birds internationally on iOS, captivating audiences with its engaging gameplay and colorful graphics. Players were tasked with taking down enemy pigs using a variety of birds with unique abilities. The game's combination of physics-based challenges and humor quickly gained popularity, making it a must-download for mobile gamers around the world.

Continue Reading
Crime & Law

Bernie Madoff Arrested for Ponzi Scheme

December 11th, 2008 16 years ago

Bernie Madoff was arrested in New York for operating the largest Ponzi scheme in history, defrauding investors of approximately $50 billion. His arrest followed a confession to his sons, who reported him to authorities. Madoff founded a brokerage firm in the 1960s and was a former chairman of NASDAQ. The case shocked the financial world and raised questions about regulatory oversight.

Continue Reading