the significance of the Triennial Act 1694 and the growth of parliamentary power

what did the Bill of Rights (1689) do to the royal prerogative?

* Imposed many limits on the royal prerogative.
* many actions by the later stuart Kings were declared as unlawful
* in the future, parliaments consent was needed for the raising taxes, the maintenance of a standing army and the suspension of some laws.
* William opposed these infringements on his prerogative, but tolerated them in interest of peace and harmony

what was the nine years war?

* William took Britain into the League of Ausburg, a coalition of European powers ranged against Louis XIV’s France, and involved the country in the Nine Years War

what were the impacts of the Nine Years war on domestic politics?

* William was out of the country campaigning in Europe between and autumn and spring every year, leaving the govt. of the country in the hands of his wife Mary
* the war influenced the composition of parliament. Royal powers of patronage increased considerably as the king increased the number of MPs who also served as military officers - many saw this process as increasing royal power over the commons, allowing for the possible corruption of individual members, and even the creation of a ‘Court Party’ which would carry out the king's bidding
* William had to summon parliament every year to gain taxes to fund the war, but was not required to dissolve parliament at any time. this meant that there was a threat that over time parliament would become increasingly subservient to the royal will.

what was the Triennial Act (1694)

* in 1692 the Lords agreed a Triennial Bill which would establish regular elections every three years - passed by the Commons but vetoed by the King.
* other measures were vetoes in 1693 which reminded many MPs of the anti-parliamentary stance of Charles II and James II.
* a powerful campaign was mounted by MPs on all sides of the HoC for a Triennial Bill, finally became law in 1694. It stated simply that no future parliament could last longer than three years.

what were the effects of the Triennial Act?

* the act removed one of the crowns main prerogative power - before this the King could dissolve a parliament which challenged the royal will, or extend one which followed the Kings wishes - the act therefore marked a substantial increase in the powers of parliament
* although the act was intended to limit royal interference in the HoC, patronage and pensions were still granted to MPs ready to obey the royal will