Justice

Abstract

Chapter 3 sets the enactment and enforcement of parliamentary legislation within the framework of the crown's responsibility to dispense justice and to uphold the law. It first discusses contextual factors that influenced the content and scope of royal law‐making. Next it identifies the problems law reform and discusses the remedies it designed in the light of theory and practice. Particular attention is paid to the judicial role of the royal council. Responses in parliament to reforms are interpreted through the principles of equity and due process. Then the crown's interest in enforcing the financial penalties laid down in statutory regulations is discussed. Particular notice is given to the role of informers. In conclusion, contemporary criticism of royal policy is considered.