VPRS 1092 Governor's Letter Books

As originally the Lieutenant Governor (1851 1855) and under the 1855 Victorian Constitution the ultimate executive power in the State is vested in the Governor as the representative of the Crown. Under the Constitution, this executive power is exercised through and with the advice of the elected Government and its Ministers, although prior to 1855, the Lieutenant-Governor had full executive authority.This series contains copies of the outwards correspondence of the Governor with letters being signed by both the Governor and by the Secretary. Prior to the passing of the Constitution Act 1855, correspondence dealt with all facets of the administration of the Colony including the appointment of officers, despatches to the Governor-General, arrangements regarding Legislative Council business and ceremonial occasions. After the development of Cabinet Government, correspondence deals more with the recognition of diplomatic representatives in Victoria, responses to requests for assistance in the tracing of missing friends and relatives and responses to requests regarding criminal sentences. Correspondence on these latter matters and on telegrams regarding the fate of Australians serving in the Boer War were invariably forwarded to the Premier or relevant Government Department. Letter books also contain details of requisitions for supplies for use in the Governors Office.