Preface

• Pages: 7-7

vii

PREFACE

Over the last 30–40 years, the former territories of the British Caribbean have been a

laboratory in which the generally accepted ‘Westminster System’ is being adapted to suit

the patterns of behaviour of the people of the area.

Sir Fred Phillips has played an active part in some of these processes of adaptation

and in other cases he has been an informed observer whose advice has been sought by

the participants themselves.

His record of the events of that period is invaluable for the people of the British

Caribbean and their leaders. A thorough understanding of the past is the best safeguard

against a repetition of the mistakes which may have been made.

The book will also prove a useful resource for students at all levels from the

secondary schools to those engaged in post-graduate studies. By making the citizens of

each country more acutely aware of the events which have taken place in neighbouring

countries, it will also contribute to the creation of a Caribbean nation.

The objective of all constitutions is, undeniably, the preservation of the freedom of the

individual and the enlargement of the area of his and her participation in the conduct of

public affairs.

Sir Fred’s analysis of the recent case law provides a convenient compilation of the

legal developments over the period which will certainly be of assistance to practitioners

whose advice will be sought, as new circumstances bring new problems to the fore.

The Right Honourable P Telford Georges