Consider the following statements:

1. The Commonwealth has no charter, treaty or constitution.
2. All the territories/countries once under the British Empire automatically joined the Commonwealth as its members.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

1. 1 only
2. 2 only
3. Both 1 and 2
4. Neither 1 nor 2

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct

• The Commonwealth is not based on any formal agreement and has no constitution of its own. Its functioning is guided by declarations such as the Singapore Declaration and Harare Declaration.

Statement 2 is incorrect

• Membership is not automatic. Countries must apply and be accepted. Several former British territories never joined.

Answer: (a) 1 only