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

that, with time, the Ionians would become sufficiently politically mature to govern
themselves properly.
He suggested substantial constitutional, administrative and economic reforms,
but still believed Britain should retain some kind of imperial control. The Senate
would only have a legislative function, with its executive powers given to a “Council
of Ministry” appointed by the Lord High Commissioner, whose members were
removable by the Legislature to prevent the Executive from violating popular
institutions. 126 The Assembly would regulate taxation and expenditure on the Islands,
though the Senate and the Lord High Commissioner would retain the right to veto
measures such as money bills. The authority of the Lord High Commissioner would
be restricted to military protection and all government acts would be approved by the
counter signature of a Minister. The arbitrary powers of the High Police would be
abolished but there would not be any reduction in the Lord High Commissioner’s
Civil List.
Gladstone also recommended certain critical changes to the Constitution. He
advised the creation of a second Legislative Chamber that would exercise the
legislative responsibilities of the Senate and function as a Tribunal to try the cases of
civil servants accused of delinquency. It would also act as a bridge between the
aristocracy and other social classes, bringing the aristocracy into closer touch with
public affairs and, hopefully, alleviating class divisions within Ionian society. 127 The
126 Ibid. Also in Gladstone to Lytton 11 January 1859, CO 136/159.
127 Hannell D., “The Ionian Islands under British Protectorate: Social and Economic Problems”
Journal of Modern Greek Studies, 7, 1989, pp. 105-132.
299