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

emaining members nominated by the Lord High Commissioner either for two
parliaments or for life. The qualifications for those elected were based on property
and education, while those nominated had previous experience of public service. 132
By combining election and nomination, Gladstone wanted to form a body that
was not too weak or too strong and could act as a guardian to the Legislature whilst
having an equally important role influencing the formation of laws. It aimed to bring
equity among the Ionians and ensure power was not transferred to a section or
clique. However, the fact that each chamber could elect its own President, subject to
the consent of the British government, clearly meant Gladstone wanted to continue
Britain’s rule of the Islands by exercising steady yet discreet control over both
chambers. If Britain had no executive prerogative to safeguard her interests, the
Ionian Islands would be better independent than nominally linked with Britain, even
as a military protectorate. 133 This model was “cut and fit” for the Ionian Islands and
had the potential, if implemented, to succeed in comparison with the Australian
model. 134
Gladstone did not believe those in government should be paid for their
services, which Maitland sanctioned in the Constitution of 1817. Under his new
proposals, members of the Legislative Chambers would receive an estimated daily
allowance while they stayed in Corfu during session and Municipal councillors
would not be paid for their services. This would avoid corruption on local and
132 Gladstone to Lytton, Confidential, 18 January 1859, CO 136/165; Gladstone to Lytton 11 January
1859, CO 136/165.
133 Gladstone to Lytton, Confidential, 27 December 1858, CO 136/165.
134 Gladstone to Lytton, Confidential, 18 January 1859, CO 136/165.
301