The House of Commons, an integral component of the United Kingdom’s Parliament, has a history that dates back to the 13th century. It began as an assembly of knights and burgesses who convened to deliberate on their collective response to the demands of higher authority. This article explores the evolution of the House of Commons, focusing on its origins, the role of the Speaker, and the chamber’s increasing political power over time.
Origins of the House of Commons
The genesis of the House of Commons can be traced back to informal gatherings of knights and burgesses. These individuals would meet in private to discuss how they should collectively address the requirements put forth by the nobility and monarchy. Due to the secretive nature of these early meetings, details about the internal workings of the House during its formative years remain obscure. Nonetheless, it is from these cautious beginnings that the House of Commons emerged as a separate entity within the English parliamentary system.
The Role of the ‘Speaker’
The position of the ‘Speaker’ within the House of Commons is a pivotal one, though its origins are somewhat enigmatic. Initially, the Speaker was the individual chosen to represent and articulate the views of the Commons when in the presence of the full Parliament. During these sessions, other members of the Commons would typically remain silent out of deference to their social superiors. It wasn’t until the Stuart period that the Speaker began to evolve from a representative primarily serving the interests of the crown to one more aligned with the will of the House itself.
Empowerment of the House of Commons
The House of Commons underwent significant development between the reign of Edward I and the end of the 14th century. It transitioned from a body with limited influence to one whose consent became essential for the enactment of statutes and the imposition of taxes. The petitions submitted by members of the Commons often gained the king’s approval in Parliament, reflecting the chamber’s growing legislative impact. Furthermore, the Commons played a role in critical state actions, including the deposition and election of monarchs, thereby cementing their involvement in the highest levels of government.
This period of empowerment laid the groundwork for the future assertion of authority by the Lower House, particularly after the Tudor monarchs reduced the power of both the Church and the nobility. As a result, the constitutional precedents established during this era proved invaluable for the House of Commons as it sought to assert its dominance in English politics.
Questions for UPSC
1. How did the role and powers of the Speaker of the House of Commons evolve from its inception to the Stuart period?
2. In what ways did the Tudor monarchs’ actions contribute to the increasing power of the House of Commons?
3. What were the key events and developments that led to the House of Commons becoming an essential participant in the legislative process and high acts of state?