Constructing Ionian identities: the Ionian Islands in British official ...

societies failed politically unless they had proper institutions in place. Britain’s
continuously advancing institutions accounted for its success. White settler colonies
adopted similar institutions. The neglect of these institutions in colonies or countries
not of British origin had been disastrous. 44 The introduction of municipal institutions,
district courts, and local management of affairs were the first steps towards
introducing representative government in the Islands.
Seaton’s proposed changes to the Constitution
Seaton’s goal for the Septinsula was a “properly representative government,
known and practically in force in other states”. Alterations needed to be meaningful
to change the authoritarian nature of the Constitution and “not in appearance only”. 45
For example, removing the direct interference of the Primary Council in selecting
members for the Legislative Assembly was the only way to guarantee the fair and
legitimate elective franchise. Seaton argued change could not occur by altering how
the Primary Council selected the Assembly, but by abolishing the Council itself.
Until there was the political will in London for such drastic action, Seaton negotiated
other amendments to the present Constitution, such as allowing a free press.
Seaton believed a free press promoted knowledge, removed prejudices, and
fostered unity between Britain and the Septinsula. He proposed the printing of
individual books and articles be allowed. Anticipating objections to his proposals, he
argued this was also “necessary” for facilitating commercial business. The governor
44 Francis M., Governors and Settlers, p. 177.
45 Seaton to Stanley, Private and Confidential, 10 August 1844, CO 136/122.
197