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Helena and Dependencies (Ascension and Tristan da Cunha) and the Pitcairn Group of Islands. It is also important to note that this analysis is based on the formal constitutional arrangements for the various territories concerned. Normal British practice, however, means that unwritten custom and convention may well affect the practical workings of such formal arrangements.
Comparisons between territories
4.
Selection of Governor
The Governor is the Queen's representative in each dependent territory; is appointed by The Queen on the advice of the Secretary of State; and is usually a member of the Diplomatic Service. He normally resides in the territory but with some exceptions (eg. Governor of Pitcairn is also UK High Commissioner in New Zealand). In all dependent territories, the Governor exercises certain reserved powers (see below).
5. Reserved Powers of the Governor
The handing over of executive power to local governments has always been gradual, the Governor retaining personal authority which has been progressively relaxed. This has normally taken two forms: the exclusion of specified subjects (see below) from the Governor's obligation to act in accordance with the advice of the executive body; and the vesting in him of a reserved power, with or without limitations, to act against its advice in case of necessity. Where the reserved power exists, it is rarely used and the terms in which it is couched reflect a policy that the Governor should not lightly invoke it. Within the bounds of these reserved powers, it rests
with the Governor and, through him, HMG to ensure, in the last resort, that the essentials of good government are secured and maintained. But the Governor cannot insist upon the carrying out of
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