Thread by @liam_redfern, Back with some more British wartime imperial policy for @HistoryIndoors #SourceSaturday! In [...]

Liam Redfern

liam_redfern

Back with some more British wartime imperial policy for @HistoryIndoors #SourceSaturday! In December 1944 Clement Attlee circulated a memoranda from the Armistice and Post-War Committee (which he chaired) to the War Cabinet

In response to American criticism, the British were attempting to redefine the Empire. The United States had suggested the 'Trusteeship' scheme - an international supervisory body that would monitor colonial powers - after the war

Britain argued however that it had always held its colonial territories in 'trust' - that the ultimate aim of the British Empire was to guide the colonies to self-government through political, social and economic development /3

In fact, they argued that the term 'partnership' was better to describe Britain's relationship with its colonies. By making themselves look like a progressive imperial power, Britain hoped to reduce American interest in its colonial affairs

The Committee then outlined what it felt should be the future objectives of British imperialism and suggested that Britain should invest further to achieve these aims

They did say, however, that if increased colonial self-government threatened international security then Britain would have to think carefully about proceeding with this policy

/6

Taken from WP (44) 738, CAB 66/59/38 @UkNatArchives

https://discovery.nationalarchives.gov.uk/details/r/C9089663

They did say, however, that if increased colonial self-government threatened international security then Britain would have to think carefully about proceeding with this policy /6Taken from WP (44) 738, CAB 66/59/38 @UkNatArchives https://discovery.nationalarchives.gov.uk/details/r/C9089663

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