Short Introduction
The Soulbury Constitution (1947) was the constitutional framework that granted Sri Lanka (then Ceylon) self-government before full independence. It was named after Lord Soulbury, who chaired the Soulbury Commission that recommended constitutional reforms for Ceylon.
This Constitution laid the foundation for parliamentary democracy in Sri Lanka. It remained in force from 1947 until 1972, when the country adopted its First Republican Constitution.
Key Facts
- Introduced in 1947 before independence.
- Based on the recommendations of the Soulbury Commission.
- Established a Westminster-style parliamentary system.
- Ceylon became a Dominion within the British Commonwealth.
- The British monarch remained Head of State.
- A Governor-General represented the monarch in Ceylon.
- A bicameral legislature was created (House of Representatives and Senate).
- Fundamental rights were not strongly entrenched.
- The Constitution came into effect in 1947.
- Remained in operation until 1972.
Important Dates
- 1944 – Soulbury Commission appointed.
- 1947 – Soulbury Constitution enacted.
- 4 February 1948 – Ceylon gained independence under this Constitution.
- 1972 – Replaced by the First Republican Constitution.
Detailed Explanation
Background of the Soulbury Constitution
During British colonial rule, demands for greater self-government increased. The British government appointed the Soulbury Commission in 1944 to recommend constitutional reforms. Based on its recommendations, the Soulbury Constitution was introduced in 1947.
It provided the legal framework for independence in 1948.
Main Features
Dominion Status
Ceylon became a self-governing dominion within the British Commonwealth. The British monarch remained the Head of State.
Governor-General
The monarch was represented locally by a Governor-General, who acted on the advice of the Prime Minister and Cabinet.
Parliamentary System
The Constitution established a Westminster-style parliamentary system with:
- House of Representatives (elected members)
- Senate (appointed and indirectly elected members)
The Prime Minister was the head of government.
Legislative Structure
The House of Representatives consisted of elected members chosen through territorial constituencies. The Senate functioned as the upper house, reviewing legislation.
This bicameral system ensured legislative debate and review.
Executive Power
Executive power was exercised by the Cabinet of Ministers, led by the Prime Minister. The Governor-General formally appointed ministers but acted on the advice of elected leaders.
Limitations of the Soulbury Constitution
Although it granted independence, the Soulbury Constitution had some limitations:
- It retained the British monarch as Head of State.
- Fundamental rights were not strongly protected.
- It allowed Parliament to amend the Constitution with a simple majority (except for certain provisions).
These limitations later led to constitutional reforms in 1972.
End of the Soulbury Constitution
In 1972, Sri Lanka adopted its First Republican Constitution. The country became a republic, removed the British monarch, and replaced the Soulbury Constitution entirely.
Conclusion
The Soulbury Constitution (1947) played a crucial role in Sri Lanka’s transition from colonial rule to independence. It established parliamentary democracy and provided the framework for self-government. Although later replaced, it remains an important milestone in Sri Lanka’s constitutional and political history.
10 Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
1. The Soulbury Constitution was introduced in:
A. 1945
B. 1947
C. 1948
D. 1972
Correct Answer: B
2. The Soulbury Constitution was named after:
A. A Sri Lankan king
B. A British Prime Minister
C. Lord Soulbury
D. A Dutch governor
Correct Answer: C
3. Under the Soulbury Constitution, Ceylon was a:
A. Republic
B. Federal state
C. Dominion
D. Military state
Correct Answer: C
4. The Head of State under the Soulbury Constitution was the:
A. Prime Minister
B. President
C. British monarch
D. Speaker
Correct Answer: C
5. The British monarch was represented in Ceylon by the:
A. President
B. Governor-General
C. Chief Justice
D. Speaker
Correct Answer: B
6. The legislative system under the Soulbury Constitution was:
A. Unicameral
B. Bicameral
C. Federal
D. Presidential
Correct Answer: B
7. The lower house of Parliament was called the:
A. Senate
B. National Assembly
C. House of Representatives
D. Legislative Council
Correct Answer: C
8. Sri Lanka gained independence under the Soulbury Constitution on:
A. 22 May 1972
B. 7 September 1978
C. 4 February 1948
D. 1 January 1950
Correct Answer: C
9. The Soulbury Constitution remained in force until:
A. 1965
B. 1972
C. 1978
D. 1983
Correct Answer: B
10. The Soulbury Constitution established which system of governance?
A. Executive Presidential System
B. Parliamentary Democracy
C. Military Rule
D. Federal Monarchy
Correct Answer: B