Section Three-British relations with the Dominions and the Statute of Westminster

Question 1

Why were Britain concerned about their dominions?

Answer 1

They played an important role in WW1 which led to them having aspiration for control over their own affairs; this could not be ignored and led to Britain especially worrying SA might desert due to hatred of Boer War

Question 2

What occurred as a consequence of this fear for the dominions?

Answer 2

The idea of a commonwealth

Question 3

What was the commonwealth?

Answer 3

Countries could gradually become fully independent nations however still loyal and had economic and political cooperation to the British Crown

Question 4

What was the Statute of Westminster 1931?

Answer 4

• Dominions should become independent nations
• Laws passed in Britain not automatically passed in Dominions and they were free to pass own laws without intereference/approval

Question 5

When did the Dominions accept the Statute of Westminster?

Answer 5

• Immediate effect in Canada, SA and Ireland

- Australia accepted in 1942 and NZ in 1947