War Consultative Committee facts for kids

The War Consultative Committee was a special group created in November 1939. It was set up by the leader of the Isle of Man, Lieutenant Governor William Leveson-Gower. This committee acted like a small "war cabinet" for the island. It helped manage things during World War II.

Its main job was to give advice to the Lieutenant Governor. They advised him on new laws, important decisions, and daily island matters. This group did not have official power in the government's rules.

What Was the War Consultative Committee?

The War Consultative Committee was a temporary group. It was formed to help the Lieutenant Governor. The Lieutenant Governor is like the island's main representative. He works with the British government. The committee helped him make choices during the war.

The committee's advice covered many areas. This included making new rules and managing the island's daily life. It was a way to get different ideas. This helped the island run smoothly during a difficult time.

Who Was on the Committee?

Governor Granville chose seven people for the committee. They came from different political groups. All seven were part of Tynwald, the island's parliament. Five were from the House of Keys, which is like a local assembly. Two were from the Legislative Council, another part of Tynwald.

The chairman of the committee was Deemster William Percy Cowley. A Deemster is a high judge on the island. Other early members included James Corrin, Walter C. Craine, Alfred Teare, Arthur E. Kitto, Samuel Norris, and Daniel J. Teare. The island's chief lawyer, the Attorney General, also attended. So did the Government Secretary. They were there to give expert advice. The meetings were kept very private.

Changes Over Time

Some members of the committee changed over the years. In 1942, Samuel Norris left the committee. Arthur J. Cottier took his place. Daniel J. Teare passed away in 1943. George H. Moore then joined the committee.

Why Was It Important?

Working with the War Consultative Committee taught the House of Keys a lot. They saw how useful it was to have a group advising the Governor. After the war, they talked to the British government. They argued for a more official way of governing the island.

Because of this experience, a new group was formed in 1946. It was called the Executive Council of the Isle of Man. This new council took over from the War Consultative Committee. It became the main advisory body to the Lieutenant Governor.