3. The 1694 Triennial Act + the growth of Parliament's power Flashcards
(3 cards)
What was the impact of the Nine Years’ War 1688-97?
William took Britain into the League of Augsburg, a coalition of European powers against Louis XIV’s France, involving the country in the Nine Years’ War. William was out of the country campaigning in Europe between Spring and Autumn each year, leaving Queen Mary in charge. The war influenced the composition of Parliament. Royal power of patronage increased considerably as the King increased the no. MPs who also served as military officers. Many saw this as increasing royal power over the HOC, allowing the corruption of members and even the creation of a ‘Court party’ which would carry out William’s bidding. William had to summon Parliament every year to gain taxes to fund the war, but he was not required to dissolve Parliament at any time. This meant there was a threat that Parliament would become more subservient to royal will.
What was the 1694 Triennial Act?
in 1692, the Lords agreed a Triennial Bill which would establish regular elections every 3 years. It was passed by the HOC but vetoed by William. Other measures were also vetoed in 1693, which to many MPs remained them of the anti-parliamentary stance taken by Charles II and James II. A powerful campaign was mounted by the MPs, making the Triennial Bill a law in 1694. It said that no Parliament could last longer than 3 years.
What were the effects of the Triennial Act?
The Act removed one of the most important prerogative powers, before this point, the monarch had been able to dissolve challenging Parliaments or extend ones who followed their wishes. The Act therefore showed the increase in Parliament’s powers. Even though the Act was made to limit royal interference in the HOC, patronage and pensions were still granted to MPs ready to obey the royal will. In the long term, frequent elections caused greater party rivalry between the Whigs and the Tories. These divisions reached their height once Anne died and the Act of Settlement was triggered. Many Tories who were still loyal to the Stuarts, were determined to block the Hanoverian succession.
