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| Judiciary |
| Administrative divisions |
| Foreign relations |
Assembly elections were held in the British Virgin Islands in 1735.
Background
In early 1735 Governor William Matthew established a Council and Assembly for both Tortola and Virgin Gorda. Although the six-member Councils were appointed by the Governor, the nine-member Assemblies were elected. [1] [2]
Electoral system
Tortola was divided into three three-member constituencies; Fat Hog Bay, Road and Saka Bay. Virgin Gorda had two constituencies, with Valley electing six members and North and South Sound electing three. [1] Voters were generally the residents rather than the freeholders. [1]
Aftermath
Following the elections, it became apparent that Governor Matthew had misinterpreted his commission. As a result, the creation of the Assemblies was illegal. Matthew was reprimanded by the Lords of Trade and the Assemblies were subsequently disbanded, although the Councils continued to meet. [1] Elections were not held again until 1773.
References
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|---|
| Judiciary |
| Administrative divisions |
| Foreign relations |
Assembly elections were held in the British Virgin Islands in 1735.
Background
In early 1735 Governor William Matthew established a Council and Assembly for both Tortola and Virgin Gorda. Although the six-member Councils were appointed by the Governor, the nine-member Assemblies were elected. [1] [2]
Electoral system
Tortola was divided into three three-member constituencies; Fat Hog Bay, Road and Saka Bay. Virgin Gorda had two constituencies, with Valley electing six members and North and South Sound electing three. [1] Voters were generally the residents rather than the freeholders. [1]
Aftermath
Following the elections, it became apparent that Governor Matthew had misinterpreted his commission. As a result, the creation of the Assemblies was illegal. Matthew was reprimanded by the Lords of Trade and the Assemblies were subsequently disbanded, although the Councils continued to meet. [1] Elections were not held again until 1773.