Before World War II, Singapore was governed as part of the British Straits Settlements. The Straits Settlements, which included Singapore, Penang and Malacca, were ruled by the British East India Company until 1858 when they came under direct British government. Singapore functioned as a Crown colony under the British government in London. The governor of the Straits Settlements, appointed by the British government, had veto power over laws passed by the local Legislative Council, which included non-official members from the Asian and European communities to advise on laws. The governor was also advised by the Executive Council made up of senior British officials.

1. Chapter 4 How was Singapore governed before World War II?