Jamaica Independence Act 1962 facts for kids
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| Long title | An Act to make provision for, and in connection with, the attainment by Jamaica of fully responsible status within the Commonwealth. |
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| Citation | 10 & 11 Eliz. 2. c. 40 |
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| Royal assent | 19 July 1962 |
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Status: Current legislation
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| Text of the Jamaica Independence Act 1962 as in force today (including any amendments) within the United Kingdom, from legislation.gov.uk | |
The Jamaica Independence Act 1962 was an important law passed by the Parliament of the United Kingdom. This Act officially gave Jamaica its independence. It meant Jamaica became a self-governing country starting on 6 August 1962.
Because of this Act, Jamaica became the first English-speaking country in the West Indies to gain full independence from the United Kingdom. After becoming independent, Jamaica joined the Commonwealth of Nations. This is a group of countries that were once part of the British Empire. Before its independence, Jamaica was part of the West Indies Federation from 1958. When Jamaica became independent, the Cayman Islands went back to being directly ruled by Britain. They had previously been a self-governing territory of Jamaica.
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How Jamaica Gained Independence
The journey to independence began with a special proposal. This proposal was called the Jamaica Independence Bill. It was first introduced in the House of Commons of the United Kingdom on 22 May 1962. Reginald Maudling, who was the Secretary of State for the Colonies, presented it.
The Bill's Journey Through Parliament
The bill had to pass through several steps to become a law.
- It was discussed and voted on in the House of Commons.
- It successfully passed its third and final reading there on 29 June 1962.
- Next, the bill moved to the House of Lords on 2 July 1962.
- Michael Hicks Beach, 2nd Earl St Aldwyn read it in the House of Lords on 5 July 1962.
- The House of Lords approved the bill on 16 July 1962 without making any changes.
Royal Approval and New Beginnings
After passing through both parts of Parliament, the bill needed one final approval. This was called Royal assent. On 19 July 1962, Queen Elizabeth II officially gave her approval. This made the bill into the Jamaica Independence Act 1962, marking a new chapter for Jamaica.
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