Paliamentary Resistance to Royal Dictates Under King James I (1603 - 1625)

The parliamentary institution in early Stuart England had not been a good experience for King James I (r.1603–1625) in that not only did it resist the royal dictates and protest its rights but it had also sought to impose itself on the political scene. In this regard, the parliamentary institution under the leadership of the house of commons refused to proceed according to the monarch’s wishes on the premise that he had overstepped his legal rights. Furthermore, it criticised his policies regarding taxation, religion and foreign affairs. It had also challenged any breach of privilege and stated that in return for grants of subsidies, the monarch should take its views on policy formulation and execution into account. Motivated by a genuine desire to preserve its privileges and play a greater role in the affairs of the kingdom, this institution provoked a confrontation with the monarch in order to give it a pretext for bargaining and cementing a gradual expansion of its power. Its independent stance, adherence to its convictions, and unwillingness to bow readily to royal policies are obvious throughout James I’s reign. During each parliamentary session, privilege matters were at the forefront of Commons business.