This chapter examines those groups which existed to promote the discussion of colonial affairs inside the Tory party and considers the degree of control which the party leadership was able to exert over their activities. It examines the activities of the institution through which party members could express their views on colonial affairs, paying special attention to the ways in which their organization and links with interest groups outside the party affected their attitudes towards the government's handling of African affairs. The conference system, committee system, the Conservative...

This chapter examines those groups which existed to promote the discussion of colonial affairs inside the Tory party and considers the degree of control which the party leadership was able to exert over their activities. It examines the activities of the institution through which party members could express their views on colonial affairs, paying special attention to the ways in which their organization and links with interest groups outside the party affected their attitudes towards the government's handling of African affairs. The conference system, committee system, the Conservative Commonwealth Council, and open and closed discussion groups are explained in detail.