University of Guelph Library
A Royal Commission is a major government inquiry into an issue. It has considerable powers, generally greater even than those of a judge but restricted to the "Terms of Reference" of the Commission. The Commission is created by Cabinet on behalf of the Monarch and empowered by a Royal Warrant, issued in Letters Patent.
Called to look into matters of great importance, Royal Commissions are usually controversial. These matters can be matters such as government structure, the treatment of minorities, or economic questions.
Royal Commissions are usually chaired by one or more notable figures; because of their quasi-judicial powers, the Commissioners are often retired senior judges.
Royal Commissions usually involve research into an issue and consultations with experts both within and outside of government. Public consultations are often held as well. The Warrant may grant immense investigatory powers, including summoning witnesses under oath, offering of indemnities, seizing documents and other evidence (sometimes including those normally protected, such as classified information), holding hearings in camera if necessary, and — in a few cases; compelling all government officials to aid in the execution of the Commission.
The results of Royal Commissions are published in reports of findings containing policy recommendations. (These reports are commonly known by the name of principle Commissioner). Recommendations are not binding and as such they may or may not be made into law by the government of the day.
Examples of Royal Commissions
- Royal Commission on Environmental Pollution 1970 -
- Royal Commission on the Reform of the House of Lords 1999 -
Search Tips
- Use the library catalogue, PRIMO, and search by combining key words.
- Use an internet search engine such as Google and search the phrase "royal commission" along with a key subject word such as pollution or crime.
- See British Sessional Papers to locate historical commission reports
