Karen Augustin

Government of Saint Lucia

Saint Lucia attained Associated Statehood on March 1 1967, which allowed it full control of its internal affairs, with Britain responsible for Defense and Foreign Affairs in consultation with the Government of Saint Lucia. The Executive and Legislative Councils were abolished and replaced by a Cabinet and a House of Assembly. The post of administrator was abolished and replaced by a local Governor as the Queen's representative in Saint Lucia. In 1969, the voting age was reduced to 18 years. In 1974 seven new constituencies were added to the existing ten, bringing the number of elected members up to seventeen. On February 22 1979, Saint Lucia obtained total independence from Britain. Saint Lucia's Parliament now comprised Her Majesty's representative, the Governor General; a Senate; and a House of Assembly. The decision-making body of Government remained the Cabinet of Ministers. The first Governor General under the new status was Sir Allan Lewis, and Premier Hon. John G. Compton became the first Prime Minister of independent Saint Lucia. The Senate presently comprises 11 Senators, six appointed by the Governor General on the advice of the Prime Minister, three on the advice of the Leader of the Opposition, and two by the Governor General on the advice of the general community. The House of Assembly comprises 17 elected members and a Speaker, who may be elected from outside the House.