SOAS Research Online

Abstract

The focus of this work is to examine the way the law has been used in the development of Ceylon (called Sri Lanka, after 1972), both during the British Colonial period (1796-1948) and thereafter. Each chapter in this thesis deals with the relationship of law and the resulting changes. This thesis has been divided into five parts. Part A provides a brief historical introduction into the period under review. Part B examines three main areas relevant to the culture of the inhabitants of Ceylon, namely. Religion, Education and Language, The three chapters which make up that part deal with the impact of Colonial Laws and policies. Part C considers the twin developments of Constitutional reforms and Judicial reforms on the Island. The constitutional progression of Sri Lanka from a Colony to Independence is examined within a historical framework. The social factors relevant to each historical stage of Constitutional development is considered as an introduction to Constitutional reform. Part D deals with the role of Law and policy in Economic development. The focus of the three chapters in this part includes, the reform of property ownership (both Immovables and Movables), reform of Banking, reform of Institutional Aids to Economic development and aspects of Revenue reform. Finally, Part E attempts to draw appropriate conclusions (while explaining the role of law in development), in the light of the observations that were made in the first thirteen chapters of this thesis.