ABSTRACT
No change in the royal title accompanied the assumption of direct rule, though Ellenborough had contemplated the transfer to the Queen of the imperial style. In 1876, the Royal Titles Act gave power to alter the title in India of the sovereign, and on January 1st 1877 Victoria was proclaimed as Queen Empress, and in 1903 and 1911 similar action was taken as regards Edward VII and George V. The council form of government was unquestionably essential in the initiation of the important measures which accompanied the transfer of authority, including the reorganization of the legislatures, of the courts, and of the armed forces. The powers of the legislature were restricted wholly to legislation, including the consideration of motions for leave to introduce a Bill. The powers of the legislature were treated by the courts with generosity. In 1903, Indian defence was taken over wholly by the Royal Navy and the squadron was abolished.
